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Tuberculosis (TB) is the single most important cause of illness and death in people with HIV.
Even in richer countries such as the UK and US it is one of the most common AIDS-defining illnesses.
People who are not taking HIV treatment should be regularly screened for TB and checked for symptoms.
Antiretroviral therapy allows the immune system to strengthen and this provides protection against TB and other infections.
US researchers have now pinpointed the risk factors for TB in people who are being treated with anti-HIV drugs.
They examined the medical records of approximately 38,000 people. TB developed in 0.4% of these individuals.
A CD4 cell count below 200, a history of injecting drug use, and non-white race were all associated with TB.
The researchers hope their findings will encourage the screening of those at highest risk.
The Friends of AIDS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.
TOGETHER WE REMAIN STRONG!
