Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease primarily caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is a significant global health concern, being one of the leading causes of infectious disease-related mortality worldwide.
Causes of Tuberculosis
Transmission
TB spreads through the air via tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, sings, or laughs. Individuals nearby can inhale these droplets, leading to infection. Only those with active TB disease in their lungs or throat can transmit the bacteria; those with latent TB infection do not spread the disease as they do not exhibit symptoms.
Bacterial Characteristics
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is an intracellular aerobic bacterium that grows slowly and has a unique cell wall structure that protects it from the immune system. This bacterium primarily infects the lungs but can also spread to other organs such as the kidneys, spine, and brain through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Risk Factors
Certain conditions and lifestyles increase the risk of contracting TB or progressing from latent to active TB:
Weakened Immune System: Individuals with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, severe kidney disease, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapies (like chemotherapy) are at higher risk.
Living Conditions: People living in overcrowded environments or areas with high TB prevalence (e.g., certain regions in Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe) are more susceptible.
Age: Young children (especially under 5) and older adults (65 and above) have higher risks due to weaker immune responses.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, malnutrition, and substance abuse (particularly intravenous drug use) contribute to increased susceptibility.
Occupational Exposure: Healthcare workers and individuals in close contact with high-risk populations (like prisons and shelters) face a greater risk of exposure.
Understanding these causes and risk factors is crucial for prevention and control measures against tuberculosis.
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