Mixed methods study on elimination of tuberculosis in Hong Kong

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) commonly affects developing countries. Several developed regions in Asian still have a stagnant intermediate TB burden. Information to adequately inform TB strategies is lacking. We conducted a mixed methods study to fill this information gap in Hong Kong. Methods: Data from the Hong Kong government were used to analyse trends of TB notification rates compared with World Health Organization (WHO) targets. A review of policy documents and literature was conducted to evaluate TB control and elimination in Hong Kong. Results: Extrapolated trends showed that Hong Kong will be unable to meet the WHO target of a 90% drop in incidence rate by 2030. The policy review showed that the Hong Kong government has not set a clear strategy and timeline for specific goals in TB control and elimination. The literature review found that older adults are largely responsible for the stagnant TB prevalence because of reactivation of latent TB infection, while mortality of hospitalised patients with TB is still high because of delayed diagnosis and treatment. Conclusion: Tuberculosis incidence is currently under control in Hong Kong, but further actions are needed if the elimination targets are to be achieved. Improved diagnostic tools are required, and policies targeting latent TB infection in older adults should be implemented to achieve the WHO target by 2030.