Tuberculosis-diabetes mellitus bidirectional screening at a tertiary care centre, South India

Tackling syndemics by integrating infectious and noncommunicable diseases in health systems of low- and middle-income countries: A narrative systematic review

The co-occurrence of infectious diseases (ID) and non-communicable diseases (NCD) is widespread, presenting health service delivery challenges especially in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). Integrated health care is a possible solution but may require a paradigm shift to be successfully implemented. This literature review identifies integrated care examples among selected ID and NCD dyads. We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, EMBASE, Global Health Database, and selected clinical trials registries. Eligible studies were published between 2010 and December 2022, available in English, and report health service delivery programs or policies for the selected disease dyads in LMICs. We identified 111 studies that met the inclusion criteria, including 56 on tuberculosis and diabetes integration, 46 on health system adaptations to treat COVID-19 and cardiometabolic diseases, and 9 on COVID-19, diabetes, and tuberculosis screening. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, most studies on diabetes-tuberculosis integration focused on clinical service delivery screening. By far the most reported health system outcomes across all studies related to health service delivery (n = 72), and 19 addressed health workforce. Outcomes related to health information systems (n = 5), leadership and governance (n = 3), health financing (n = 2), and essential medicines (n = 4)) were sparse. Telemedicine service delivery was the most common adaptation described in studies on COVID-19 and either cardiometabolic diseases or diabetes and tuberculosis. ID-NCD integration is being explored by health systems to deal with increasingly complex health needs, including comorbidities. High excess mortality from COVID-19 associated with NCD-related comorbidity prompted calls for more integrated ID-NCD surveillance and solutions. Evidence of clinical integration of health service delivery and workforce has grown-especially for HIV and NCDs-but other health system building blocks, particularly access to essential medicines, health financing, and leadership and governance, remain in disease silos.

The collaborative framework for the management of tuberculosis and type 2 diabetes syndemic in low- and middle-income countries: a rapid review

INTRODUCTION

Given the absence of international guidelines on the joint management and control of tuberculosis (TB) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) launched in 2011 a policy framework to address the growing syndemic burden of TB-T2D. This review aimed at mapping the available evidence on the implementation of the Union-WHO Framework, explicitly, or bi-directional TB-T2D health programs as an initiative for co-management in patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).

METHODS

A rapid review was performed based on a systematic search in PubMed and Web of Science electronic databases for peer-reviewed articles on The Union-WHO Framework and bi-directional interventions of TB and T2D in LMIC. The search was restricted to English language articles and from 01/08/2011 to 20/05/2022.

RESULTS

A total of 24 articles from 16 LMIC met the inclusion criteria. Four described the implementation of The Union-WHO Framework and 20 on the bi-directional interventions of TB and T2D. Bi-directional activities were found valuable, feasible and effective following the Union-WHO recommendations. Limited knowledge and awareness on TB-T2D comorbidity was identified as one of the barriers to ensure a functional and effective integration of services.

CONCLUSIONS

This review revealed that it is valuable, feasible and effective to implement bi-directional TB and T2D activities (screening and management) according to the Union-WHO Framework recommendations, especially in countries that face TB-T2D syndemic. Additionally, it was apparent that gaps still exist in research aimed at providing evidence of costs to implement collaborative activities. There is need for TB and T2D services integration that should be done through the well-stablished TB programme. This integration of two vertical programmes, could ensure patient-centeredness, continuum of care and ultimately contribute for health systems strengthening.

Integrated Management of Diabetes and Tuberculosis in Rural India - Results From a Pilot Study

Introduction

The World Health Organization and International Union against Tuberculosis (TB) recommends screening patients with TB for Diabetes Mellitus (DM) at the initiation of treatment. There are few pilot studies which screen TB patients for DM, but none of them have documented the feasibility of managing TB patients with DM in the Indian healthcare setting. Operational research is needed to determine the best way to manage individuals with both conditions. This pilot study aimed to develop, and field test an integrated, multidisciplinary program addressing the management of individuals with TB and DM and other associated chronic conditions in the Indian primary healthcare setting.

Methods

This pilot study used a randomized controlled trial design with mixed-methods evaluation and was conducted in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, a southern state of India. All the 120 patients newly diagnosed with TB from 10 participating villages were screened for DM and associated cardiovascular risk factors. Non-physician health workers were trained to follow-up patients for a period of 8 months to encourage treatment adherence, monitor treatment response including blood glucose levels and provide lifestyle advice.

Results

The intervention was well-accepted by the providers and patients. However, there were no statistically significant variations observed for mean blood glucose levels (mean [SD]: 5.3 [−23.3 to 33.8]) of patients for both intervention and control group participants in this feasibility study. Awareness about diabetes and tuberculosis comorbidity and cardiovascular risk increased among the non-physician health workers in the intervention arm of the study.

Discussion

The co-management of TB-DM is acceptable to both the health providers and patients. With appropriate training, availability of infrastructure and planned intervention implementation, it is feasible to co-manage TB-DM within the existing primary health care system in India.

Implementation of the WHO's collaborative framework for the management of tuberculosis and diabetes: a scoping review

OBJECTIVE

To map evidence on the implementation of the WHO's collaborative framework for the management of tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) comorbidity, globally.

DESIGN

Scoping review.

METHODS

Guided by Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review framework, this review mapped literature on the global implementation of the framework for the management of TB and DM comorbidity, globally. An extensive literature search for peer-reviewed studies, theses, studies in the press and a list of references from the selected studies was conducted to source-eligible studies. PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Science Direct, the EBSCOhost platform (academic search complete, health source: nursing/academic edition, CINAHL with full text), Scopus and the WHO library were used to source the literature. We performed title screening of articles using keywords in the databases, after which two independent reviewers (RS and PV) screened abstracts and full articles. Studies from August 2011 to May 2021 were included in this review and the screening was guided by the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Findings were analysed using the thematic content analysis approach and results presented in the form of a narrative report. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension was used as a checklist and for explaining the scoping review process.

RESULTS

This review found evidence of the WHO TB-DM collaborative framework's implementation in 35 countries across the globe. TB-DM comorbidity was identified in patients through bidirectional screening of both patients with TB and patients with DM in rural and urban settings.

CONCLUSION

Due to the paucity of evidence on mechanisms of collaboration, we recommend further research in other implementing countries to identify techniques used for diagnosis and integration of TB and DM services, in order to ensure that effective and joint management of TB-DM comorbidity in populations is achieved.

The cumulative dose-dependent effects of metformin on the development of tuberculosis in patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a well-known risk factor for tuberculosis (TB). Metformin, which is an essential anti-diabetic drug, has been shown to exhibit anti-TB effects in patients with DM. Its effect on preventing the development of TB among patients who are newly diagnosed with DM remains unclear.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study using the claims database of the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service. The study population included patients who were newly diagnosed with type 2 DM and who were treated with anti-diabetic drugs between 1 January 2003 and 31 March 2011. A patient was defined as a metformin user if he/she had taken metformin for more than 28 days within 6 months since cohort entry, and as a metformin non-user if he/she had never been treated with metformin. The development of TB within 2 years after the index date was compared by Cox proportional hazard regression models between metformin users and 1:1 propensity score (PS)-matched non-users.

RESULTS

Among 76,973 patients who were newly diagnosed with type 2 DM, 13,396 were classified as metformin users, 52,736 were classified as metformin non-users, and 10,841 were excluded from the final analysis. PS-matched Cox proportional hazard regression models revealed that metformin use was not associated overall with the prevention of TB development (HR 1.17; 95% CI 0.75-1.83; P = 0.482). There was a trend, however, towards a reduction in the development of TB among patients taking a higher cumulative dose of metformin. Patients who were in the highest quartile (Q4) of cumulative metformin dose had only a 10% risk of developing TB compared to metformin non-users. In contrast, during the early phases of metformin treatment, patients in the second quartile (Q2) of cumulative metformin use had a higher risk of developing TB than patients in the first quartile (Q1).

CONCLUSIONS

Only the highest cumulative doses of metformin were protective against the development of TB among patients who were newly diagnosed with type 2 DM; lower cumulative doses of metformin did not appear to reduce the incidence of active TB infection.

Diabetes among tuberculosis patients and its impact on tuberculosis treatment in South Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The escalating burden of diabetes is increasing the risk of contracting tuberculosis (TB) and has a pervasive impact on TB treatment outcomes. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the burden of diabetes among TB patients and assess its impact on TB treatment in South Asia (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka). PubMed, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), and CINAHL databases were systematically searched for observational (cross-sectional, case-control and cohort) studies that reported prevalence of diabetes in TB patients and published between 1 January 1980 and 30 July 2020. A random-effect model for computing the pooled prevalence of diabetes and a fixed-effect model for assessing its impact on TB treatment were used. The review was registered with PROSPERO number CRD42020167896. Of the 3463 identified studies, a total of 74 studies (47 studies from India, 10 from Pakistan, four from Nepal and two from both Bangladesh and Sri-Lanka) were included in this systematic review: 65 studies for the prevalence of diabetes among TB patients and nine studies for the impact of diabetes on TB treatment outcomes. The pooled prevalence of diabetes in TB patients was 21% (95% CI 18.0, 23.0; I2 98.3%), varying from 11% in Bangladesh to 24% in Sri-Lanka. The prevalence was higher in studies having a sample size less than 300 (23%, 95% CI 18.0, 27.0), studies conducted in adults (21%, 95% CI 18.0, 23.0) and countries with high TB burden (21%, 95% CI 19.0, 24.0). Publication bias was detected based on the graphic asymmetry of the funnel plot and Egger's test (p < 0.001). Compared with non-diabetic TB patients, patients with TB and diabetes were associated with higher odds of mortality (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.7; 95% CI 1.2, 2.51; I2 19.4%) and treatment failure (OR 1.7; 95% CI 1.1, 2.4; I2 49.6%), but not associated with Multi-drug resistant TB (OR 1.0; 95% CI 0.6, 1.7; I2 40.7%). This study found a high burden of diabetes among TB patients in South Asia. Patients with TB-diabetes were at higher risk of treatment failure and mortality compared to TB alone. Screening for diabetes among TB patients along with planning and implementation of preventive and curative strategies for both TB and diabetes are urgently needed.

Multicenter screening of diabetic patients for detecting new cases of tuberculosis: an approach to intensify the case detection rate of tuberculosis in developing countries with high prevalence of diabetes

Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem in most of developing countries. Meanwhile, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is also increasing rapidly.

Objectives

To describe the feasibility of implementing screening test for tuberculosis among diabetic patients and identifying factors associated with high detection rate.

Methods

Study Design: Multi-center cross-sectional study. This study was implemented in the governmental healthcare settings. To diagnose TB among diabetics, we used a symptom-based questionnaire that included the symptoms of suspected TB according to the guidelines of National Tuberculosis Program in Egypt.

Results

Among 4283 adult diabetics, 14 TB cases were diagnosed; 9 known TB cases and 5 newly detected cases. The number needed to detect one new case of TB was 855. Male diabetics and who those suffered from liver disease experienced a significantly higher prevalence of TB and a higher detection rate of new active cases.

Conclusions

Screening for TB among diabetics in routine governmental healthcare services was successfully implemented. Screening DM patients in countries with a high prevalence of DM will reveal a significant number of active TB cases, which will in turn improve the case detection rate of TB.

Epidemiological impact of targeted interventions for people with diabetes mellitus on tuberculosis transmission in India: Modelling based predictions

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a leading driver of tuberculosis (TB) disease in TB-DM burdened countries. We aimed to assess the impact on TB disease of several intervention strategies targeting people with DM in India.

METHODS

A previously validated TB-DM mathematical model was extended to include interventions targeting DM individuals. The model stratified the population by age, DM status, TB infection status and stage, TB disease form, treatment, recovery, and intervention status.

RESULTS

By 2050, different TB vaccination strategies (coverage of 50 % and vaccine efficacies ranging between 50 %-60 %) reduced TB incidence and mortality rates by 4.5 %-20.8 % and 4.1 %-22.1 %, respectively, and averted 3.1 %-12.8 % of TB disease cases in the total population. Number of vaccinations needed to avert one TB case (effectiveness) was 14-105. Varying the coverage levels of latent TB treatment (coverage of 50 %-80 % and drug effectiveness of 90 %) reduced TB incidence and mortality rates by 7.1 %-11.3 % and 8.2 %-13.0 %, respectively, averting 4.2 %-6.7 % of TB cases, with effectiveness of 38-40. Different scenarios for dual and concurrent treatment of those with TB and DM, reduced TB incidence and mortality rates by 0.1 %-0.4 % and 1.3 %-4.8 %, respectively, averting 0.1 %-0.2 % of TB cases, with effectiveness of 28-107. Different scenarios for managing and controlling DM (regardless of TB status) reduced TB incidence and mortality rates by 4.5 %-16.5 % and 6.5 %-22.2 %, respectively, averting 2.9 %-10.8 % of TB cases, with effectiveness of 6-24.

CONCLUSION

Gains can be attained by targeting DM individuals with interventions to reduce TB burden. Most strategies were effective with <50 intervention doses needed to avert one TB disease case, informing key updates of current treatment guidelines.

Availability and readiness of diabetes health facilities to manage tuberculosis in Tanzania: a path towards integrating tuberculosis-diabetes services in a high burden setting?

BACKGROUND

The burden of tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) is rising and substantially affecting the low-income countries, including Tanzania. Integrated management of TB and DM is becoming of importance in TB high burden countries. In this study, we sought to assess the availability and readiness of diabetes facilities to manage TB in Tanzania.

METHODS

The present study was based on a secondary analysis of the 2014-2015 Tanzania Service Provision Assessment Survey data. We calculated the service availability as a percentage of diabetes facilities offering TB services: diagnosis and treatment. Regarding the readiness of diabetes facilities to provide TB management, we calculated based on the three domains: staff training and guideline, diagnostics, and medicines as identified by World Health Organization-Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) manual. A score of at least half (≥50%) of the indicators listed in each of the three domains was considered as high readiness. We used a descriptive statistics to present our findings.

RESULTS

There were 619 DM facilities all over the country of which only 238 (38.4%) had TB services.72.6 and 62.6% of these DM facilities with TB services were publicly owned and located in rural settings respectively. Generally, DM facilities had low readiness to manage TB; 12·6%. More specifically, all DM facilities had low readiness in terms of trained staff and guidelines. However, in the domain of diagnostics and medications, higher levels of care (hospitals) had a comparatively higher level of readiness to manage TB.

CONCLUSION

Most of the DM facilities had low availability and readiness to manage TB. The findings of our study display an urgent need to mobilize important resources to enhance the integration of TB services in DM facilities. This includes medications, management guidelines, diagnostics, and health professionals who have received refresher training on TB/DM co-management. However, presently, few DM facilities may be allowed to start managing TB as per the Strategic and Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases in Tanzania 2016-2020.

Trends in HbA1c levels and implications for diabetes screening in tuberculosis cases undergoing treatment in India

SETTING

The optimal timing of screening for diabetes mellitus (DM) among tuberculosis (TB) cases is unclear due to the possibility of stress hyperglycemia.

DESIGN

We evaluated adult (18 years) pulmonary TB cases at treatment initiation as well as at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months. DM was identified by self-report (known DM) or glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)  6.5% (new DM). Trends in HbA1c levels during treatment were assessed using non-parametric tests.

RESULTS

Of the 392 participants enrolled, 75 (19%) had DM, 30 (40%) of whom had new DM. Of the 45 participants with known DM, respectively 37 (82%) and 40 (89%) received medication to lower glucose levels at treatment initiation and completion; one participant with new DM initiated glucose-lowering medication during follow-up. The median HbA1c level in participants with known, new and no DM was respectively 10.1% (interquartile range [IQR] 8.3-11.6), 8.5% (IQR 6.7-11.5) and 5.6% (IQR 5.3-5.9) at treatment initiation, and 8.7% (IQR 6.8-11.3), 7.1% (IQR 5.8-9.5) and 5.3% (IQR 5.1-5.6) at treatment completion (P < 0.001). Overall, 5 (12%) with known and 13 (43%) with new DM at treatment initiation had reverted to HbA1c < 6.5% by treatment completion (P = 0.003); the majority of reversions occurred during the first 3 months, with no significant reversions beyond 6 months.

CONCLUSION

HbA1c levels declined with anti-tuberculosis treatment. Repeat HbA1c testing at treatment completion could reduce the risk of misdiagnosis of DM.

Diabetes in developing countries

There has been a rapid escalation of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in developing countries, with varied prevalence according to rural vs urban habitat and degree of urbanization. Some ethnic groups (eg, South Asians, other Asians, and Africans), develop diabetes a decade earlier and at a lower body mass index than Whites, have prominent abdominal obesity, and accelerated the conversion from prediabetes to diabetes. The burden of complications, both macro- and microvascular, is substantial, but also varies according to populations. The syndemics of diabetes with HIV or tuberculosis are prevalent in many developing countries and predispose to each other. Screening for diabetes in large populations living in diverse habitats may not be cost-effective, but targeted high-risk screening may have a place. The cost of diagnostic tests and scarcity of health manpower pose substantial hurdles in the diagnosis and monitoring of patients. Efforts for prevention remain rudimentary in most developing countries. The quality of care is largely poor; hence, a substantial number of patients do not achieve treatment goals. This is further amplified by a delay in seeking treatment, "fatalistic attitudes", high cost and non-availability of drugs and insulins. To counter these numerous challenges, a renewed political commitment and mandate for health promotion and disease prevention are urgently needed. Several low-cost innovative approaches have been trialed with encouraging outcomes, including training and deployment of non-medical allied health professionals and the use of mobile phones and telemedicine to deliver simple health messages for the prevention and management of T2D.

Prevalence of diabetes mellitus among tuberculosis patients in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus are significant global public health challenges. In Sub-Saharan Africa, study findings regarding prevalence of diabetes mellitus amongst tuberculosis patients have been inconsistent and highly variable. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis estimates the overall prevalence of diabetes mellitus among tuberculosis patients in Sub-Saharan Africa.

METHODS

Four international databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Cochrane Library) were systematically searched. We included all observational studies reporting the prevalence of DM among TB patients in Sub-Saharan Africa. All necessary data for this review were extracted using a standardized data extraction format by two authors (CT and AA1). STATA Version 14 statistical software was employed to conduct meta-analysis. The Cochrane Q test statistics and I2 test were used to assess the heterogeneity of the studies. Finally, a random effects meta-analysis model was computed to estimate the pooled prevalence of diabetes mellitus in TB patients. Besides, subgroup analysis was done based on different factors.

RESULTS

In the meta-analysis, sixteen studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included. The findings of these 16 studies revealed that the pooled prevalence of diabetes mellitus among tuberculosis patients in Sub-Saharan Africa was 9.0% (95% CI: 6.0, 12.0%). The highest prevalence of diabetes mellitus among tuberculosis patients was found in Nigeria (15%), followed by Tanzania (11%), and then Ethiopia (10%). Besides, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among HIV infected TB patients was (8.9%) which is slightly higher than HIV uninfected (7.7%) TB patients.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes mellitus among tuberculosis patients in Sub-Saharan Africa was significantly high. Moreover, this study found that there was a high prevalence of DM among HIV infected than uninfected TB patients. It is strongly recommended to screen for DM among TB patients and special emphasis should be given for early screening of DM among TB/HIV co-infected patients.

Screening for diabetes among tuberculosis patients: a nationwide population-based study in Egypt

Background

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing rapidly in Egypt and considered one of the major health problems in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Objectives

To measure the prevalence of diabetes and detect the undiagnosed cases of diabetes mellitus among patient with tuberculosis.

Methods

Study Design: Nationwide population-based study. To diagnose DM among TB patients, we used a fasting blood sugar level of ≥ 126 mg/dl and a post-prandial blood glucose test result of ≥ 200 mg/dl.

Results

Screening for DM among 1435 TB patients' with no history of DM detected 30 new cases of DM, with a case detection rate of 2.09%. The highest screening yields were among TB patients aged ≥ 40 years, females and those with pulmonary TB. The number needed to screen (NNS) TB patients for detecting one new case of DM was 48 while the lowest values were for older age (NNS=27) and females (NNS=29).

Conclusion

Older age and being females and those with pulmonary type of TB were more prone to the double burden of TB and DM. Identifying cases with double burden of diseases will improve the proper management of both diseases and prevent complications.

Integrating screening for non-communicable diseases and their risk factors in routine tuberculosis care in Delhi, India: A mixed-methods study

Background

Evidence supports the integration of prevention and management for tuberculosis (TB) with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Bi-directional screening for TB and diabetes mellitus (DM) is already implemented in India, a country with a dual burden of TB and NCDs. However, very limited programmatic data are available on the feasibility of adding other NCDs and their risk factors in such screening programme.

Objective

To assess the yield, feasibility, and acceptability of a two-stage integrated screening for NCDs and risk factors for NCDs among patients with TB ≥20 years and treated in DOTS centres of two medical colleges in Delhi, between October 2016 and March 2017.

Methods

It was a mixed-methods, triangulation study with a quantitative component (cross-sectional study using questionnaires, anthropometric measurements and records review) and a qualitative component (descriptive study using interview data).

Results

Amongst 403 patients screened, the prevalence of hypertension was 7% (n = 28) with 20 new cases detected and 8% for DM (n = 32) with 6 new cases diagnosed. The number needed to screen to find a new case was 20 and 63 for hypertension and DM respectively. The most frequent NCD-risk factors were inadequate vegetable (80%) and fruits (72%) intake, alcohol use (34%), use of smokeless tobacco (33%) and smoking (32%). Clustering of four or more risk factors was associated with increasing age and male sex (p<0.05). Both patients and health providers considered the screening relevant and acceptable. However, waiting time and costs involved in blood tests were considered as bothersome by the patients, while health providers perceived increased workload, inadequate medical supplies and inadequate skills and knowledge as key challenges in implementation of the screening.

Conclusion

Integrating screening for NCDs and their risk factors in the existing TB programme produces high yield and it is feasible and acceptable by patients and health providers provided the challenges are overcome.

Meta-analysis of the prevalence of tuberculosis in diabetic patients and its association with cigarette smoking in African and Asian countries

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of tuberculosis in diabetic patients and to determine the effect of cigarette smoking.

Results

A total of 15 studies was included in the meta-analysis. The pooled overall prevalence of tuberculosis in diabetes was 4.72% (95% CI 3.62–5.83%). In sub-group analyses, the prevalence was 5.13% (95% CI 4.34–5.92%) in Africa, followed by 4.16% (95% CI 2.9–5.4%) in Asia. The odd ratio of tuberculosis among diabetes patients was 7.6 (95% CI 1.46–39) in cigarette smokers as compared to nonsmokers. Publication bias was detected based on graphic asymmetry of fun-nel plots, Begg’s and Egger’s tests (p < 0.05). Tuberculosis is a common co-morbidity in diabetic patients. Tuberculosis-diabetes co-morbidity is significantly higher in cigarette smokers.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-018-3390-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Epidemiology and Host Factors

In 2014, WHO reported approximately 9.6 million new cases of tuberculosis (TB) in the world, more than half of which are contributed by developing countries in Asia and Africa. Lack of modern diagnostic tools, underreporting of the new cases and underutilization of directly observed therapy (DOT) remain a concern in developing countries. Transient resurgence of TB during the HIV epidemic has subsided and the annual decline has resumed in developed countries including the USA. In 2014 though, the rate of decline has slowed down resulting in leveling of TB incidence in the USA. In developed countries like the USA, the incidence of TB remains high in those with certain risk factors for TB. This group includes immunocompromised patients, particularly those with positive HIV infection. Others at high risk include those with diabetes, cancer, those taking immunosuppressive drugs, and those with other medical conditions that reduce host immunity. If we look at age and ethnicity, elderly patients are at higher risk of developing TB. African-American, foreign-born, and homeless populations are also at higher risk of developing tuberculosis. Virulence of the mycobacteria, and immunological and genetically mediated factors are also mentioned, but these topics are not the primary goal of this article. This review, thus discusses the epidemiology, host factors, and those at high risk for developing active TB. A brief review of the current trends in drug resistance of mycobacteria is also presented.

Prevalence and associated factors of tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus comorbidity: A systematic review

Introduction

The dual burden of tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) has become a major global public health concern. There is mounting evidence from different countries on the burden of TB and DM comorbidity. The objective of this systematic review was to summarize the existing evidence on prevalence and associated/risk factors of TBDM comorbidity at global and regional levels.

Methods

Ovid Medline, Embase, Global health, Cochrane library, Web of science and Scopus Elsevier databases were searched to identify eligible articles for the systematic review. Data were extracted using standardized excel form and pilot tested. Median with interquartile range (IQR) was used to estimate prevalence of TBDM comorbidity. Associated/risk factors that were identified from individual studies were thematically analyzed and described.

Results

The prevalence of DM among TB patients ranged from 1.9% to 45%. The overall median global prevalence was 16% (IQR 9.0%-25.3%) Similarly, the prevalence of TB among DM patients ranged from 0.38% to 14% and the overall median global prevalence was 4.1% (IQR 1.8%-6.2%). The highest prevalence of DM among TB patients is observed in the studied countries of Asia, North America and Oceania. On the contrary, the prevalence of TB among DM patients is low globally, but relatively higher in the studied countries of Asia and the African continents. Sex, older age, urban residence, tobacco smoking, sedentary lifestyle, poor glycemic control, having family history of DM and TB illness were among the variables identified as associated/risk factors for TBDM comorbidity.

Conclusion

This systematic review revealed that there is a high burden of DM among TB patients at global level. On the contrary, the global prevalence of TB among DM patients is low. Assessing the magnitude and risk/associated factors of TBDM comorbidity at country/local level is crucial before making decisions to undertake TBDM integrated services.

Diabetes and pulmonary tuberculosis: a global overview with special focus on the situation in Asian countries with high TB-DM burden

BACKGROUND

The double burden of tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) is hitting certain Asian countries harder than other areas. In a global estimate, 15% of all TB cases could be attributable to DM, with 40% of those cases coming from India and China. Many other countries of South, East, and South-East Asia are of particular concern given their TB burdens, large projected increases in DM prevalence, and population size.

OBJECTIVE

In this narrative review, we aimed to: (i) give an overall insight into the evidence on TB-DM epidemiology from high double burden Asian countries, (ii) present the evidence on bi-directional screening implementation in this region, (iii) discuss possible factors related to higher TB susceptibility of Asian diabetic patients, and (iv) identify TB-DM comorbidity treatment challenges.

METHODS

The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched for all studies addressing DM/TB epidemiology, bi-directional screening and management in South, East and South-East Asia.

RESULTS

We identified the DM prevalences among TB patients as ranging from approximately 5% to more than 50%, whereas TB prevalences among diabetic patients were 1.8-9.5 times higher than in the general population in developing Asian countries. Evidence from studies designed to address diagnosis and treatment of the dual disease in these critical regions is scarce as well as the evidence related to possible DM patients' genetic and acquired predisposition for TB.

CONCLUSION

More prospective studies specifically designed to address adequate screening techniques, identify patients at risk, and define an adequate treatment of dual disease in this region are needed without delay.

Cohort profile: the diabetes-tuberculosis treatment outcome (DITTO) study in Pakistan

PURPOSE

Pakistan is faced with an increasing prevalence of diabetes in addition to its existing high burden of tuberculosis (TB). Diabetes has a detrimental effect on treatment outcomes of patients with TB, which may hinder achieving the goals of the End-TB strategy by 2030. We conducted a prospective cohort study to determine difference between treatment outcomes among patients with diabetes and new pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and patients without diabetes and new PTB. This would help generate contextual and valid scientific evidence from a developing country like Pakistan with its unique interplay of sociocultural, economic and health system factors to inform policy and practice.

PARTICIPANTS

This paper outlines the baseline characteristics of 614 new cases of PTB, aged 15 years and older, which were followed up prospectively at 2nd, 5th and 6th months while on antituberculosis treatment and at 6 months after treatment completion.

FINDINGS TO DATE

We ascertained patients' diabetic status by conducting random and fasting blood glucose tests and their glycaemic control by determining glycosylated haemoglobin. Treatment outcomes were established using standardised definitions provided by WHO. The assessment of 614 respondents' diabetic status revealed that 113 (18%) were diabetic and 501 (82%) were non-diabetic. A greater proportion of patients with diabetes and PTB were illiterate (n=74/113, 65.5%) as compared to patients without diabetes and PTB (n=249/501, 50%) (p=0.035). More patients with diabetes and PTB gave a history of heart disease (n=14/113, 12%) and hypertension (n=26/113, 23%) as compared to patients without diabetes and PTB (n=2/501, 0.4% (heart disease) and n=13 501, 3% (hypertension)) (p<0.001). Unfavourable treatment outcome was more likely among patients with diabetes and PTB (n=23/93, 25%) as opposed to patients without diabetes and PTB (n=46/410, 11%) (p=0.001).

FUTURE PLANS

We are negotiating with the government regarding funding for a further 2-year follow-up of the cohort to ascertain death and relapse in the post-treatment period and also differentiate between re-infection and recurrence among these patients with respect to their diabetic status.

Promoting operational research through fellowships: a case study from the South-East Asia Union Office

In 2009, the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) jointly developed a new paradigm for operational research (OR) capacity building and started a new process of appointing and supporting OR fellows in the field. This case study describes 1) the appointment of two OR fellows in The Union South-East Asia Office (USEA), New Delhi, India; 2) how this led to the development of an OR unit in that organisation; 3) achievements over the 5-year period from June 2009 to June 2014; and 4) challenges and lessons learnt. In June 2009, the first OR fellow in India was appointed on a full-time basis and the second was appointed in February 2012-both had limited previous experience in OR. From 2009 to 2014, annual research output and capacity building initiatives rose exponentially, and included 1) facilitation at 61 OR training courses/modules; 2) publication of 96 papers, several of which had a lasting impact on national policy and practice; 3) providing technical assistance in promoting OR; 4) building the capacity of medical college professionals in data management; 5) support to programme staff for disseminating their research findings; 6) reviewing 28 scientific papers for national or international peer-reviewed journals; and 7) developing 45 scientific abstracts for presentation at national and international conferences. The reasons for this success are highlighted along with ongoing challenges. This experience from India provides good evidence for promoting similar models elsewhere.

Screening for diabetes mellitus in tuberculosis patients in a referral center in Iran

BACKGROUND

A significant link between diabetes mellitus (DM) and tuberculosis (TB) has been widely demonstrated. DM increases the risk of TB in all aspects. The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence of DM among newly diagnosed TB patients, to screen these patients for DM, and to determine the number needed to screen (NNS) to diagnose new cases of DM.

METHODS

A prospective cohort descriptive study was carried out in Iranian adults admitted to the National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease from 2012 to 2013 with a new diagnosis of TB. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) were measured for all patients.

RESULTS

Of the 293 patients included, 101 (34.5%) had DM. DM was newly diagnosed in 45 (19%) patients. The number needed to screen was 5 to identify one new DM case. Age ≥ 40 years was associated with DM in this population (odds ratio (OR) = 3.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.47-10.38).

CONCLUSION

Screening for DM should be performed routinely in patients with TB and may improve treatment outcomes.

Tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus in the Republic of Kiribati: a case-control study

OBJECTIVES

To better inform local management of TB-diabetes collaborative activities, we aimed to determine the prevalence of diabetes among persons with and without TB and to determine the association between TB and diabetes in Kiribati, a Pacific Island nation.

METHODS

We compared consecutively enrolled TB cases to a group of randomly selected community controls without evidence of TB. Diabetes was diagnosed by HbA1c, and clinical and demographic data were collected. A tuberculin skin test was administered to controls. The chi-square test was used to assess significance in differences between cases and controls. We also calculated an odds ratio, with 95% confidence intervals, for the odds of diabetes among cases relative to controls. Unweighted multivariate logistic regression was performed to adjust for the effects of age and sex.

RESULTS

A total of 275 TB cases and 499 controls were enrolled. The diabetes prevalence in cases (101, 37%) was significantly greater than in controls (94, 19%) (adjusted odds ratio: 2.8; 95% CI 2.0-4.1). Fifty-five percent (108) of all diabetic diagnoses were new; this proportion was higher among controls (64.8%) than cases (46.5%). Five patients with TB were screened to detect one patient with diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a strong association between TB and diabetes in Kiribati and bidirectional screening should be conducted in this setting.

Results of the implementation of a pilot model for the bidirectional screening and joint management of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus in Mexico

BACKGROUND

Recently, the World Health Organisation and the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease published a Collaborative Framework for the Care and Control of Tuberculosis (TB) and Diabetes (DM) (CFTB/DM) proposing bidirectional screening and joint management.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of the CFTB/DM in Mexico.

DESIGN

Prospective observational cohort.

SETTING

15 primary care units in 5 states in Mexico.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged ≥20 years diagnosed with DM or pulmonary TB who sought care at participating clinics.

INTERVENTION

The WHO/Union CFTB/DM was adapted and implemented according to official Mexican guidelines. We recruited participants from July 2012 to April 2013 and followed up until March 2014. Bidirectional screening was performed. Patients diagnosed with TB and DM were invited to receive TB treatment under joint management.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Diagnoses of TB among DM, of DM among TB, and treatment outcomes among patients with DM and TB.

RESULTS

Of 783 DM patients, 11 (1.4%) were unaware of their TB. Of 361 TB patients, 16 (4.4%) were unaware of their DM. 95 TB/DM patients accepted to be treated under joint management, of whom 85 (89.5%) successfully completed treatment. Multiple linear regression analysis with change in HbA1c and random capillary glucose as dependent variables revealed significant decrease with time (regression coefficients (β)  = -0.660, (95% confidence interval (CI), -0.96 to -0.35); and β = -1.889 (95% CI, -2.77 to -1.01, respectively)) adjusting by sex, age and having been treated for a previous TB episode. Patients treated under joint management were more likely to experience treatment success than patients treated under routine DM and TB programs as compared to historical (adjusted OR (aOR), 2.8, 95%CI 1.28-6.13) and same period (aOR 2.37, 95% CI 1.13-4.96) comparison groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Joint management of TB and DM is feasible and appears to improve clinical outcomes.

Improving tuberculosis prevention and care through addressing the global diabetes epidemic: from evidence to policy and practice

Diabetes triples the risk of tuberculosis and is also a risk factor for adverse tuberculosis treatment outcomes, including death. Prevalence of diabetes is increasing globally, but most rapidly in low-income and middle-income countries where tuberculosis is a grave public health problem. Growth in this double disease burden creates additional obstacles for tuberculosis care and prevention. We review how the evolution of evidence on the link between tuberculosis and diabetes has informed global policy on collaborative activities, and how practice is starting to change as a consequence. We conclude that coordinated planning and service delivery across communicable and non-communicable disease programmes is necessary, feasible, and creates synergies that will help to reduce the burden of both tuberculosis and diabetes.

Clinical management of concurrent diabetes and tuberculosis and the implications for patient services

Diabetes triples the risk for active tuberculosis, thus the increasing burden of type 2 diabetes will help to sustain the present tuberculosis epidemic. Recommendations have been made for bidirectional screening, but evidence is scarce about the performance of specific tuberculosis tests in individuals with diabetes, specific diabetes tests in patients with tuberculosis, and screening and preventive therapy for latent tuberculosis infections in individuals with diabetes. Clinical management of patients with both diseases can be difficult. Tuberculosis patients with diabetes have a lower concentration of tuberculosis drugs and a higher risk of drug toxicity than tuberculosis patients without diabetes. Good glycaemic control, which reduces long-term diabetes complications and could also improve tuberculosis treatment outcomes, is hampered by chronic inflammation, drug-drug interactions, suboptimum adherence to drug treatments, and other factors. Besides drug treatments for tuberculosis and diabetes, other interventions, such as education, intensive monitoring, and lifestyle interventions, might be needed, especially for patients with newly diagnosed diabetes or those who need insulin. From a health systems point of view, delivery of optimum care and integration of services for tuberculosis and diabetes is a huge challenge in many countries. Experience from the combined tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS epidemic could serve as an example, but more studies are needed that include economic assessments of recommended screening and systems to manage concurrent tuberculosis and diabetes.