Abstract

PIP: A study in Mumbai, India, revealed an increase in dual morbidity concerning HIV and tuberculosis (TB). Over the last 6 years, the number of TB cases in the city has more than doubled. An examination of HIV+TB trends from 1988 and beyond suggests an increasing trend of HIV seroprevalence among tuberculosis patients from 2.56% in 1998 to 22.7% in 1996. The highest risk for HIV-induced TB was found in the group aged 25-34 years. Among the HIV-infected individuals with TB, HIV was believed to be responsible for the occurrence of TB in 68% of the cases, and 17% of all TB cases in Mumbai. The increase in dual morbidity indicates the need to prevent HIV and control TB to the maximum extent in the city. The control programs, however, need to focus on smear-positive TB patients to prevent transmission, especially to those who suffer from HIV infection.