Epidemiological characteristics of pulmonary tuberculosis in Xinjiang, 2015–2019

  Objective   To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in Xinjiang from 2015 to 2019, and provide evidence for the TB prevention and control.

  Methods   The reported data of pulmonary TB patients in Xinjiang from 2015 to 2019 were collected from “China Disease Prevention and Control Information System” for a descriptive analysis .

  Results   A total of 271 098 active pulmonary TB cases were reported in Xinjiang from 2015 to 2019. The average incidence rate was 226.14/100 000 in five years, and the incidence rate was highest in 2018. The incidence rate of active pulmonary TB in age group ≥65 years was highest. The cases in students increased with year, and most cases were farmers. The four prefectures with high incidence rates were Kashi (535.18/100 000), Akesu (353.50/100 000), Hotan (328.47/100 000) and Kizilsu Kirghiz (309.14/100 000).

  Conclusion   It is still necessary to strengthen the prevention and control of pulmonary TB in Kashi, Akesu, Hotan and Kizilsu Kirghiz prefectures in Xinjiang, with the elderly and students as the key populations, through early prevention and treatment to stop the epidemic and spread of TB.