High TB Risk Among Indian Healthcare Workers: Urgent Call for Action

A new study reveals that tuberculosis cases are significantly higher among healthcare workers in India compared to the general population. The analysis, conducted over the past two decades, highlights the critical need for improved infection control measures, routine screenings, and better healthcare infrastructure to protect these workers.

Underlining critical occupation risks in the health sector, a new study has shown that tuberculosis cases are much more prevalent among healthcare workers in India compared to the general population.

The analysis of ten different studies conducted between 2004 and 2023 found an alarming average prevalence of 2,391.6 cases per 100,000 healthcare workers, significantly higher than the 300 cases per 100,000 in the general population.

Titled 'Prevalence of Tuberculosis Among Healthcare Workers in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis,' the study was conducted by experts from Teerthanker Mahaveer University and various prestigious hospitals in India. Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is a major public health issue, especially in high endemic regions like India, which accounts for nearly a quarter of the global TB burden, according to the study.

(With inputs from agencies.)