Epidemiological profile of new Tuberculosis cases in Maranhão 2014-2023

Resumen

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a public health problem, with 10.7 million new cases in 2024. In Brazil, there were 84,308 cases, with Maranhão standing out, where socioeconomic factors contribute to the high incidence of the disease. Aim: To describe the epidemiological profile of new TB cases reported in Maranhão in a 10-year historical series. Methods: Descriptive study on TB cases between 2014 and 2023, using data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). The study analyzed variables such as sex, age group, race, education level, clinical form, HIV testing, directly observed treatment (DOT), and treatment closure status. Results: During the study period, 21,916 cases of TB were registered in Maranhão. The new cases were predominantly male (65.91%), of mixed race (71.64%), of working age (20 to 59 years), and with low levels of education (50.43%). Furthermore, 89.62% had the pulmonary form of the disease, 7.98% tested positive for HIV, and only 21.65% underwent directly observed treatment (DOT). Regarding case outcomes, 70.25% were cured and 11.17% abandoned treatment. Conclusions: The profile of TB in Maranhão (men, mixed race, low education level, and pulmonary form) reflects social inequities. The low coverage of DOT (Directly Observed Therapy) and the high abandonment rate highlight the urgency of strengthening control actions and adherence to treatment in the state.