A STUDY ON DETERMINANTS OF TB-HIV CO-INFECTION AMONG PATIENTS ENROLLED AT DISTRICT TUBERCULOSIS CENTRES

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) co-infection remains a major public health challenge in India, the country with the highest TB burden globally. India’s TB Report 2022 notified 1.93 million cases. People living with HIV are about 18 times more likely to develop active TB. However, not all HIV-infected individuals develop TB, suggesting the role of additional determinants. This study assessed the socio-demographic profile and factors associated with TB–HIV co-infection. Methods: A retrospective record-based case–control study was conducted among 242 adult subjects (121 cases and 121 controls) enrolled at designated district TB centers and 19 affiliated treatment units in Hyderabad, Telangana, between January and December 2022. Cases were TB patients with HIV; controls were TB patients without HIV. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Statistical significance was assessed using the chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression in Epi-Info 7.2.6.6. Results: Majority of participants were male in both cases (67.7%) and controls (52.1%). Most belonged to the 30–39-year age group, had secondary education, and had a Class III socio-economic status. Age, sex, education, religion, and marital status were significantly associated with TB–HIV co-infection, while socio-economic status was not significant. Conclusion: TB–HIV co-infection was more common among males, individuals aged 30–39 years, those with secondary education, and married individuals. Clinical factors such as overcrowding, low body weight, anemia, and substance use were also more prevalent. These findings highlight the multifactorial nature of co-infection and the need for targeted interventions.