Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 13: A recent study published in paediatric Research has shed light on the rising incidence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) among children and adolescents worldwide. The study, based on data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 database, analyzed trends between 1990 and 2019, revealing an annual increase of 4.15% in MDR-TB cases among those under 20 years of age.

While the incidence saw fluctuations over the years—a sharp rise from 1990 to 2005, a slight decline from 2005 to 2015, and a resurgence from 2015 to 2019—certain regions continue to bear the highest burden. Eastern Europe, Southern sub-Saharan Africa, and South Asia recorded the most significant caseloads, with girls being more susceptible than boys.

The study estimates that in 2019 alone, 67,710 children and adolescents contracted MDR-TB, leading to 7,061 deaths. Children under five years of age were found to be the most vulnerable, exhibiting the highest mortality rates (0.62 per 100,000 in 2019) despite having lower overall incidence compared to older children (15-19 years).

MDR-TB is a form of tuberculosis resistant to rifampicin and isoniazid, the two most widely used TB treatments. Its rise is linked to incomplete antibiotic treatment and previous TB infections, leading to longer recovery times, treatment failures, and higher mortality rates.

Despite the World Health Organization's (WHO) 'End TB' strategy, which aims to reduce TB incidence by 90% by 2035, the study suggests that without stronger intervention, MDR-TB will continue to rise. Researchers emphasize the need for improved healthcare strategies, increased global investment, and urgent policy action to contain this growing public health crisis.

• MDR-TB incidence among children and adolescents is rising at 4.15% annually.

• Younger children (<5 years) are more vulnerable to mortality, while older children (15-19 years) have higher infection rates.

• The disease is more prevalent in low-income regions, with India, China, South Africa, and Russia accounting for over 60% of cases.

• Eastern Europe, Southern sub-Saharan Africa, and South Asia are among the worst-affected regions.

The findings highlight an urgent need for targeted healthcare policies, enhanced disease surveillance, and improved access to MDR-TB treatment, particularly in low-income regions where the burden is highest. Experts stress that only through global cooperation and sustained investment can the tide against MDR-TB be turned.