The number of tuberculosis cases in Scotland has seen a significant increase of more than a third in the past year, marking the highest level in seven years. According to the Enhanced Surveillance of Mycobacterial Infections system, there were 283 reported cases of TB in 2023, resulting in an annual incidence rate of 5.2 cases per 100,000 population. This represents a 40.8% surge compared to the previous year, where the rate was 3.7 cases per 100,000.
Tuberculosis, a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, is transmitted through the inhalation of bacteria expelled by individuals with TB in their lungs. It is noteworthy that the incidence of TB in Scotland in 2023 is the highest since 2017. While most people who breathe in TB bacteria can control the infection with their immune system, certain factors can increase the risk of falling ill from TB, including living in areas with high TB rates, malnutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption, weakened immune systems, and diabetes.
In Scotland, TB is most prevalent among males aged 25 to 44, with a concerning rise in rates among children under five from 0.2 to 2.4 cases per 100,000 population. Alarmingly, in 2023, 67.5% of individuals diagnosed with TB were born outside the UK, with the most common risk factor being refugee or asylum seeker status. Of those born outside the UK, 71% were diagnosed two or more years after entering the country, potentially indicating a reactivation of latent infection or new infections within the UK.
Furthermore, the link between tuberculosis and deprivation remains significant, with 30.8% of reported cases in 2023 residing in the most deprived areas. While 82.6% of TB cases completed treatment within 12 months in 2022, slightly below the recommended rate of 85%, the death rate before treatment completion was 4%, higher than in England (3.8%) and in the European Union (8.2%).
Addressing the surge in tuberculosis cases in Scotland will require a comprehensive approach that considers the socio-economic factors influencing the spread of the disease, as well as ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent further escalation of TB incidence.
In conclusion, the rise in TB cases in Scotland calls for heightened awareness, targeted interventions in high-risk populations, and adequate support for those affected to combat the spread of this infectious disease effectively.