Epidemiological features of tuberculosis infection in a high-altitude population: a population-based, cross-sectional survey in Tibet, China.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Targeted strategies for marginalized populations, including high-altitude communities, are crucial for TB elimination. This study assessed TB infection (TBI) prevalence across altitudinal gradients and evaluated altitude-dependent risk factors in Tibet, China.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey by multistage stratified random cluster sampling was conducted using ESAT6-CFP10 skin test (C-TST), symptom screening, chest X-rays, and bacteriological tests. The influencing factors of C-TST positivity were analyzed via generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) and Boruta algorithm feature ranking. The TBI prevalence was estimated using WHO-recommended methods. Causal mediation analysis was performed to explore mediating variables contributing to association between altitude

SUBMITTER: Wang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12436351 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature