Epidemiological characteristics of tuberculosis in Shanghai, China, 2006-2017

ObjectiveTo characterize the epidemiology of pulmonary tuberculosis in Shanghai for further improvement in the prevention and control of this disease.

MethodsThrough descriptive epidemiological study, we analyzed the data on tuberculosis cases in terms of general situation, time distribution, regional distribution, gender and occupation distribution, reported in Shanghai during 2006-2017.

ResultsA total of 84 902 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis were reported in Shanghai during 2006-2017.The annual crude incidence was 32.7/10⁵, but the trend kept declining(χ²=2 216.958, P < 0.001).Pulmonary tuberculosis cases were reported in 16 districts of the city.The annual average incidence of the disease was highest in Yangpu, Xuhui, and Songjiang District.The men to women ratio was 2.17 : 1;the incidence was highest in the age group of 65 years old and above, which was 49.51/10⁵; Retirees, unemployed workers and physical workers came to 18.89%, 14.61% and 12.87%, respectively.

ConclusionThe incidence of tuberculosis in Shanghai is consecutively declining in the past years 2006-2017, however, a higher incidence is found in elderly populations.On the basis of comprehensive management, the management concerning prevention and control of tuberculosis should be strengthened in the aged population.