The burden and determinants of post-TB lung disease in Tanzanian adults: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Post-TB lung disease (PTLD) is an important but under-recognised chronic respiratory disease in high TB burden settings such as Tanzania.

METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey of adults within 2 years of completion of TB treatment in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Data were collected using questionnaires (symptoms and exposures), spirometry and chest radiographs to assess outcome measures, which were correlated with daily life exposures, including environment and diet.

RESULTS: Of the 219 participants enrolled (mean age: 45 years ± 10; 193 [88%] males), 98 (45%) reported chronic respiratory symptoms; 46 (22%) had received treatment for TB two or more times; and HIV prevalence was 35 (16%). Spirometric abnormalities were observed in 146 (67%). Chest X-ray abnormalities occurred in 177 (86%). A diagnosis of PTLD was made in 200 (91%), and half had clinically relevant PTLD. The prevalence of ≥Grade 3 modified Medical Research Council chronic bronchitis and dyspnoea was respectively 11% and 26%. Older age, multiple episodes of TB and poverty indicators were linked with clinically relevant PTLD.

CONCLUSIONS: We found a substantial burden of PTLD in adults who had recently completed TB treatment in Tanzania. There is a pressing need to identify effective approaches for both the prevention and management of this disease.