TB in the United States

TB cases were declining for several decades, but this trend reversed beginning in the mid 1980's and peaking in 1992 at 10.5 TB cases per 100,000 . This increase was attributed to the HIV epidemic, immigration from countries with high rates of TB, the spread of the disease in certain settings (e.g. homeless shelters and correctional facilities), and inadequate funding for TB Control in Institutions and other public health efforts.

In response to the rise in case, funding was increased, and public health agencies doubled their control measures. As a result, the case rates began to decline in 1993. In 1999, the case rate reached an all-time low of 6.4 cases per 100,000. Funding, however, has remained flat in recent years, once-again raising the question of whether there are adequate resources to continue to control and prevent this disease.

The high-risk groups in the United States include immigrants from areas of the world where TB is common. Other high-risk factors include:

• Exposure to infectious TB disease
• Being elderly
• Homelessness
• Illicit drug use
• HIV positive status
• Weakened immune systems or receiving certain medical treatments

Visit the CDC's website for more statistics on TB incidence in the US.