Risk factors and treatment outcome of smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients: A five-year study in the North of Iran

Background:It is essential to constantly review the risk factors and treatment outcomes of tuberculosis (TB). This study evaluated some important risk factors of TB over five years. Methods: Between 2013 and 2018, all available information and possible risk factors related to TB patients were analyzed from the TB registry program of the health district of Gorgan, Iran. Results: Among 349 TB patients, 194 (55.59%) were males and 167 (47.85%) had at least a comorbidity. The death rate was higher in the age group more than 65 years (p < 0.001), the low-educated group (P = 0.012), and patients with underlying diseases, especially diabetes (p< 0.001). In total, univariate and multivariate statistical analyzes showed that having comorbidity (OR = 4.34; 95% CI 1.49 -13.49),as well as, being jobless (OR = 3.07; 95% CI 1.19 -8.59) were the main factors influencing the adverse events. Conclusion: According to the study, aging, underlying diseases, and cultural poverty include a higher share of the main risk factors for active TB and/or treatment outcomes. By considering these risk factors and training the medical staff continually, we can reduce the time of TB diagnosis, and prevent it from spreading.