Distribution of clinical forms of newly detected pulmonary tuberculosis among adult population of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) during the pandemic of novel coronavirus infection

With an aim to study the impact of restrictive measures against COVID-19 pandemic on epidemiologic situation with tuberculosis (TB), we analyzed key epidemiological data and distribution of clinical forms of newly detected pulmonary TB (PTB) among adult population of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia), with a separate analysis for the Arctic zone, as an example of a territory with low population density and limited transport accessibility.

For the study purpose, we used data from federal statistical recording and reporting forms, and data from TB medical patient database of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia). Rates for adult newly diagnosed PTB cases were analyzed for two pandemic years (2020-2021) against two pre-pandemic years (2018-2019). Statistical methods of choice were Pearson’s correlation coefficient and data weighing by chest x-ray coverage trend.

Study findings showed that the period of strengthened anti-epidemic and sanitation measures against novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) was followed by substantial decrease in epidemiologic rates for TB, but, at the same time, profoundly deteriorated situation with delays in TB detection.

In the Arctic zone of Yakutia, epidemiologic rates for TB were showing decrease during restrictive measures, but generally remain higher than mean republic rates.

Increase in proportion of new adult patients with advanced disease forms was observed, together with the fact the TB detection rates in the Arctic zone were lower compared to mean republic detection rates.

The scope and quality of preventive checkups for TB correlated in a statistically significant way with the distribution of clinical forms of TB among newly diagnosed patients.

In conclusion, to reduce the rate of detections of MTB-positive destructive TB forms, prevention and detection measures will need to be strengthened, and should include universal annual chest x-ray screening of the population aged 15 and above.

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