Tuberculosis in Brazil: ecological study on incidence, vulnerable groups, treatment, and outcomes (2012 – 2024)

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious and transmissible disease caused by a bacterium. This disease predominantly manifests in the pulmonary form but can also present as extrapulmonary, affecting other organs of the body. Although there are currently vaccines against severe forms of the disease, effective diagnostic methods, and proven treatment options, incidence rates remain high. This ecological study analyzed the epidemiological profile from the Ministry of Health between 2012 and 2024. Variables observed included the incidence coefficient and the number of new cases each year in Brazil; new cases by vulnerability status and year of diagnosis; treatment outcomes among new tuberculosis cases diagnosed in vulnerable populations by year of diagnosis; and treatment outcomes for new cases of laboratory-confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis by year of diagnosis. These data revealed a still high incidence profile, especially among the most vulnerable groups to contagion. Additionally, a strong correlation was established between high mortality rates in co-infections involving tuberculosis and HIV. The results emphasize the need to strengthen public policies focused on prevention, accurate diagnosis, and proper management of tuberculosis to combat this disease.