Private sector engagement in tuberculosis detection: a bibliometric analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Bibliometrics
• Health Systems Research

Background:

• The private sector's involvement in tuberculosis (TB) detection and diagnosis is increasingly recognized.
• Understanding the research landscape is crucial for optimizing private sector contributions to TB control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct the first comprehensive bibliometric analysis of scientific publications on the private sector's role in TB detection and diagnosis.
• To identify key themes, research trends, and collaboration patterns from 1964 to 2025.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search in Scopus and Web of Science using PRISMA guidelines.
• Bibliometric analysis of 616 articles using Pivot Tables and VOSviewer for keyword co-occurrence.
• Thematic analysis of identified research clusters.

Main Results:

• Publication activity shows a steady increase since the early 2000s.
• Key issues identified include suboptimal care quality, diagnostic delays, patient costs, and the need for public-private collaboration.
• Thematic clusters highlight diagnostic challenges, delays, costs, and the potential of public-private partnerships.

Conclusions:

• The private sector has significant potential to enhance TB case detection and reduce public sector burden.
• Gaps remain in regulatory mechanisms, cost-effectiveness, and data standardization.
• Future research should focus on strengthening governance, integrating innovative diagnostics, and incentivizing quality assurance for effective TB control.