Study on Risk Factors and Epidemiological Characteristics of Tuberculosis in the Elderly Population

To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and major risk factors of tuberculosis (TB) among the elderly population in China, providing a basis for formulating targeted TB prevention and control strategies. This study comprehensively analyzed recent epidemiological surveys, cohort studies, and literature reports on TB in China to investigate the influencing factors of TB incidence among the elderly. These factors include population aging, gender differences, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, malnutrition, household economic status, living environment, history of close contact with TB patients, and HIV infection. Although the incidence rate of TB among the elderly has shown a decreasing trend over the years, their proportion among all TB patients has been increasing. Factors such as male gender, low income, smoking, diabetes, and poor nutritional status were found to be closely associated with an increased risk of TB among the elderly. Additionally, environmental factors (e.g., poor ventilation) and a history of TB or close contact with TB patients significantly heightened the likelihood of TB occurrence in the elderly. TB prevention and control among the elderly should comprehensively consider trends in population aging, biological factors, and socioeconomic factors. Regular screening, nutritional improvements, and health education for high-risk groups are crucial to effectively reducing the incidence of TB in this population.