Comorbid Tuberculosis and Diabetes Mellitus: Assessing Health Status and Therapeutic Responses in Patients from Gujarat

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are two major global health challenges, with their coexistence increasingly recognized as a serious public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like India. The dual burden of TB and DM complicates disease management and adversely affects treatment outcomes. This study aimed to assess the socio-demographic profile, glycemic control, and treatment outcomes in newly diagnosed pulmonary TB patients with coexisting diabetes in Gujarat, India. Methods: A longitudinal observational study was conducted for six months across five Tuberculosis Units (TUs) in Gujarat. Eighty newly diagnosed pulmonary TB patients with diabetes were enrolled and followed through three stages: at diagnosis, after the intensive phase of TB treatment, and at the end of therapy. Socio-demographic data, glycemic parameters (FBG, PPBG, HbA1c), and treatment outcomes were assessed using pre-tested questionnaires and laboratory investigations. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The majority of participants were middle-aged males (61.25%), with laborers constituting the largest occupational group (42.5%). Significant improvement in glycemic control was observed during treatment: mean FBG reduced from 162.8 mg/dL to 139.5 mg/dL (p<0.001) and PPBG declined from 247.3 mg/dL to 210.9 mg/dL (p<0.001). Treatment success was achieved in 90.2% of patients, while 6.9% were lost to follow-up and 2.8% died. Conclusion: Integrated management of TB and diabetes significantly improved glycemic control and resulted in favorable treatment outcomes. Comprehensive bidirectional screening and collaborative management are essential for improving the prognosis of TB-DM comorbid patients.