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Abstract
THE PREVALENCE OF PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS AMONG PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC DISEASES AND THEIR CLOSE CONTACTS IN IRAQ
*Abdulkhuder Maktof, Salwan Abdullah Naji, Hasanain Ali Abdullah, Mohammed Shakir Fashal
ABSTRACT
Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading infectious cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Individuals with chronic diseases and close contacts of TB patients represent high-risk groups for infection. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of pulmonary TB and its association with sociodemographic and clinical factors. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at Al-Muthanna Health Directorate between January and June 2025. A total of 225 participants, including suspected TB cases, patients with chronic diseases, and close contacts of confirmed TB patients, were enrolled. Data on sociodemographic variables, medical history, and risk factors were collected through structured questionnaires. Diagnostic evaluation included sputum smear microscopy for acid-fast bacilli (AFB), GeneXpert, culture when indicated, and radiological imaging such as chest X-ray (CXR) and computed tomography (CT). Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square tests, with p <0.05 considered significant. Results: Of the 225 participants, 137 (60.9%) were TB positive and 88 (39.1%) were negative. Male patients (52.9%) slightly predominated, and most participants resided in rural areas (69.8%). TB positivity was significantly associated with age (p = 0.04) and education level (p = 0.02). Patients aged 20–29 years and ≥60 years, and those with lower education, were at greater risk. Radiological findings, especially CXR, showed a strong association with TB positivity (p = 0.0001). Gender, occupation, marital status, residence, contact history, and chronic disease were not significantly associated. Conclusion: TB prevalence was high among patients with chronic diseases and close contacts, particularly in younger adults and the elderly. Targeted screening, community education, and improved diagnostic strategies are essential to reduce TB burden in Iraq.
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