Prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis before (2017–2019) and after (2020–2023) the COVID-19 pandemic in the Northeastern region of Brazil

Abstract

Objective: To compare the prevalence and mortality of Pulmonary Tuberculosis before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in the Northeast region of Brazil, contributing to a better understanding of the epidemiological impacts and the challenges related to disease surveillance and control. Method: This is an epidemiological, ecological, and retrospective study based on secondary data obtained from the Information System for Notifiable Diseases, made available by the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System. Reported cases of Pulmonary Tuberculosis and the associated mortality rates, calculated per 100,000 inhabitants, were analyzed. Results: In the period prior to the pandemic (2017–2019), a total of 73,115 cases of Pulmonary Tuberculosis were reported in the Northeast region. During the pandemic (2020–2021), 78,286 cases were recorded, representing a 7% increase in regional prevalence. Regarding mortality, six states—Maranhão, Ceará, Rio Grande do Norte, Pernambuco, Sergipe, and Bahia—showed a reduction in rates, decreasing from 1.8 to 1.4 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants. In contrast, two states—Piauí and Paraíba—reported an increase in mortality during the same period. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the epidemiological dynamics of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in the Northeast of Brazil, mainly due to reduced mobility, increased social vulnerability, and the interruption or reduction of routine healthcare services. These factors contributed to diagnostic delays, challenges in treatment continuity, and greater community circulation of the etiological agent.