Jan 14, 2025 Story by: Publisher
In the United States, tuberculosis (TB) disproportionately impacts groups that have historically faced greater barriers to accessing healthcare, including Black or African American individuals. Several factors contribute to the elevated rates of TB within these communities.
TB’s Impact on Black or African American Communities
TB disease affects Black or African American persons at a higher rate compared to other groups. In 2023, 1,697 cases of TB were reported among non-Hispanic Black or African American individuals in the U.S., representing 17.6% of all reported TB cases nationwide.
Actions by the CDC to Address TB Disparities
To combat TB health disparities among Black or African American individuals, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has implemented various initiatives:
- Highlighting Personal Stories: The CDC shares the experiences of Black or African American individuals diagnosed and successfully treated for TB to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
- Community Engagement: The agency leads outreach efforts in communities at higher risk of TB, including Black or African American populations, partnering with organizations like the TB Elimination Alliance to promote education, testing, and treatment.
- Educational Resources: Patient education materials tailored for Black or African American communities are made available through platforms such as Find TB Resources.
- Comprehensive Reporting: The CDC compiles national TB data, including case counts and rates by gender, race, ethnicity, risk factors, and geographic location, to better understand and address disparities.
- Research Initiatives: Through two dedicated research consortiums, the CDC explores more effective TB treatments and examines risk factors associated with certain medical conditions.
- Provider Engagement: Health care providers are informed about the latest TB diagnostics and treatment options to ensure optimal patient care.
- Collaboration with Global Partners: The CDC works with national and international public health organizations to enhance TB screening among immigrants and refugees and to test individuals arriving from countries with high TB rates.
By continuing these efforts, the CDC aims to reduce and ultimately eliminate TB health disparities among Black or African American populations in the United States. Source: CDC
