Tuberculosis in New York City - turning the tide

The number of tuberculosis cases in New York City decreased from 1992 to 1994, possibly because of increases in supervised therapy and completion of treatment. Between 1978 and 1992 the number of tuberculosis cases in New York City almost tripled. Researchers reviewed death certificates and medical records from a variety of sources to confirm the accuracy of tuberculosis statistics between 1992 and 1994. The surveillance system appeared to be fairly accurate. The number of cases decreased among populations prone to recent infections, but increased among populations likely to have reactivated infections. This reduction in infection was probably due to an increase in the number of patients in programs where they are observed taking their medication. Other factors contributing to the decreased transmission may include decreases in the size of homeless shelters, improved tuberculosis control in hospitals and prisons, and the use of multiple drug regimens.