Tuberculosis in Cuba

Abstract

Tuberculosis is a significant public health problem in developing countries, despite the fact that the means for effective control have been available for more than 35 yr. Cuba is a developing country that has achieved control of tuberculosis comparable to that of the United States. The history of tuberculosis control in Cuba prior to 1959 is reviewed. The achievement of effective control during the past 24 yr results from the implementation of ambulatory, supervised chemotherapy at the primary care level and the priority set by the government. Case-finding strategies, chemotherapeutic regimens, prevention, and economic implications are discussed. A wider application of the successful Cuban experience is possible by providing an overall improvement in living conditions, a significant but modest investment in human resources, and a political commitment to improved health care.