Comparative Analysis of Tuberculosis Incidence Trends: New and Relapsed Cases per 100,000 Population in Iran and Its Neighbors (2010-2023)

Yousefi, Roohallah

doi:10.30491/hpr.2025.544686.1506

Comparative Analysis of Tuberculosis Incidence Trends: New and Relapsed Cases per 100,000 Population in Iran and Its Neighbors (2010-2023)

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Roohallah Yousefi

Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran

10.30491/hpr.2025.544686.1506

Abstract

Background: In 2023, there were 8.2 million Tuberculosis (TB) cases, primarily in South-East Asia. The World Health Organization (WHO) is advocating for increased funding, enhanced diagnostics, and improved healthcare to eradicate TB by 2035. Wealthy nations exhibit lower relapse rates, while poorer countries face higher risks. The challenges of drug-resistant TB and COVID-19 are complicating treatment efforts.
Objectives: This study aims to examine TB recurrence rates in Iran and neighboring countries using data from the WHO. The objective is to comprehend the rate of disease recurrence and the correlations among the results of the studied countries from 2010 to 2023.
Methods: Data on TB relapse cases from 2010 to 2023 in Iran and neighboring countries were analyzed using SPSS v27. Correlations were assessed using Pearson and Spearman tests.
Results: The study highlights TB relapse trends per 100,000 people in the Middle East and Central Asia from 2010-2023. The UAE and Jordan witnessed significant decreases in cases, while Oman and Egypt reported modest declines. Iran initially showed improvement in rates but later experienced an increase, indicating treatment challenges. Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait also achieved lower rates, but Iraq's rates remain high. Yemen and Qatar saw increases, prompting concerns about control. Turkey and Azerbaijan showed improvement, whereas Afghanistan and Pakistan experienced rising cases, suggesting a need for improved strategies. Accordingly, socioeconomic and healthcare factors play a critical role in effectively managing TB.
Conclusion: Enhancing diagnostic and treatment infrastructure in remote, high-incidence areas is crucial for addressing TB recurrence. Training healthcare workers, implementing Directly Observed Therapy (DOT), monitoring drug resistance, addressing social determinants, and conducting awareness campaigns are essential strategies for enhancing community education and treatment adherence.

Keywords

World Health Organization

Tuberculosis

Middle Eastern Population

Iran

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