[Tuberculosis in foreigners from Asian and African countries]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health challenge, particularly in migrant populations.
• Understanding TB characteristics in foreign-born individuals is crucial for effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical features and treatment outcomes of active tuberculosis in foreign-born patients versus Japanese patients.
• To identify factors contributing to treatment challenges in foreign TB patients.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective clinical review of 121 foreign patients with active TB admitted between 1986-1991.
• Comparison with 177 Japanese patients treated during the same period.
• Analysis of treatment intervals, drug resistance, compliance, and dropout rates.

Main Results:

• Foreign patients presented with shorter intervals from arrival to onset, higher initial drug resistance, and longer sputum conversion times.
• Treatment completion rates were lower in foreign patients (73%) compared to Japanese patients (88%).
• Key reasons for treatment discontinuation in foreign patients included returning to their home countries and poor compliance.

Conclusions:

• Active tuberculosis in foreign patients often involves pre-existing infection reactivated post-arrival, explaining higher initial drug resistance.
• Challenges in managing TB in foreign populations necessitate tailored public health interventions and administrative programs.
• Addressing compliance and logistical barriers is essential for improving TB treatment outcomes in migrant groups.