Epidemiology of pulmonary tuberculosis in people aged 60 years in Shaoxing, Zhejiang

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in people aged 60 years in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province and provide evidence for TB prevention and control. Methods The statistical analysis on pulmonary TB in old people in Shaoxing was conducted by using the incidence data of TB in Shaoxing during 2008-2012 collected from National disease reporting information system and TB management information system Results From 2008 to 2012, a total of 4340 TB cases was reported in old people, the reported incidence was 148.36/lakh, in which 1967 was smear positive cases. The incidence of smear-positive TB was 67.24 /lakh. The incidence in males was significantly higher than that in females. The incidence was highest in age group 70-79 years (207.47/lakh). The cases in farmers accounted for the largest proportion (79.91%). Medical care seeking due to disease (43.87%) and referral (48.55%) were the main way to find TB cases. The seasonality of the disease was obvious with the incidence peaked during March-August. Conclusion The incidence of TB in old people was stable in Shaoxing, and a decline trend was observed. It is necessary to strengthen the TB prevention and control in old people.