Why treat latent TB in people with diabetes?
- People with DM have 3 fold greater risk of reactivation of latent TB
- Attributable risk is significant given growing prevalence of DM globally
- Derive significant public health benefit (prevention of spread in population)
- Promote individual well being (prevention of disease in patient)
- Novel methods: QuantiFERON® testing may make even more feasible
Diabetes is said to be in epidemic proportions
In 2000, according to the World Health Organization, at least 171 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes, or 2.8% of the population.[4] Its incidence is increasing rapidly, and it is estimated that by the year 2030, this number will almost double.[4]
According to the CDC
Approximately 800,000 new cases of diabetes are diagnosed each year. It is the seventh leading cause of death in this country and a major contributor to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and amputations.
