Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis disproportionately affects Black Americans, who have rates of TB significantly higher than white Americans. This disparity is driven by social determinants of health, including poverty, crowded living conditions, limited access to healthcare, and higher rates of underlying conditions such as diabetes and HIV that increase susceptibility to TB. Black Americans are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and to face barriers to completing the lengthy treatment regimen, which can last 6 to 9 months or longer. Historical mistrust of the medical system, lack of access to culturally competent care, and inadequate screening in underserved communities further contribute to these disparities. Additionally, latent TB infection often goes undetected in Black communities due to lower rates of testing and follow-up care. Addressing these disparities requires increased screening, equitable access to treatment, community-based education, and culturally competent public health interventions.