Research provides increased understanding of anti-tuberculosis drug resistance in the UK

2 May 2008

Anti-tuberculosis drug resistance has been increasing globally for a number of years and the research by a team of Health Protection Agency experts, published today on bmj.com, adds to our knowledge of resistance patterns in the UK.

Although concerns are often raised regarding the possibility of significant increases in drug resistant TB, to date the observed rise in such cases in the UK is not large, a position similar to that of other Western European countries.

The key to reducing levels of tuberculosis (TB) is early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.  This research re-emphasises the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of TB.

Levels of TB and drug resistance among the general population continue to be low.  As previous research has shown there are particular areas in the UK, such as the inner cities, where rates remain higher.

The burden of TB in the UK continues to affect certain populations, including ethnic minorities, individuals born in countries with high levels of TB, the homeless and drug misusers.  

Healthcare providers face a tough challenge managing the complex needs of some of these groups to ensure prompt diagnosis and effective treatment of TB.

Over the last two decades the incidence of TB in the UK has been increasing but since 2006 has remained stable. However, it is still too early to judge whether this is a sign of a slow down in the long term increase.

TB remains a public health problem in the UK and continues to be a priority for the Agency.

Ends

Notes for editors

TB is a bacterial infection that can affect any part of the body, but most often the lungs.

TB does not spread easily from person-to-person. To be at risk of contracting the disease, one must spend many hours in close contact with someone who is openly infectious and coughing up TB germs.

The infection is normally spread by respiratory droplets, usually by coughing and sneezing. However, an individual is not usually at risk unless there has been contact over many hours with someone who is openly infectious.

This disease used to be common in the UK. For example, in the mid-1930s, over 50,000 cases of TB were notified each year. These days it is much less common. Approximately 8000 cases are recorded each year.

TB is curable with a full course of treatment.

For further information on TB, visit the Health Protection Agency website at:

http://www.hpa.org.uk/webw/HPAweb&Page&HPAwebAutoListName/Page/1191942150134?p=1191942150134

For media queries related to this statement, please contact the Health Protection Agency, Centre for Infections Press Office on 020 8327 6647/ 7098 or 7097.

Last reviewed: 24 December 2008