Tuberculosis in the Prison System in Sergipe: Characteristics and Outcomes

Environments within the prison system provide ideal conditions for the spread of Tuberculosis (TB). In addition, difficulties in accessing early diagnosis, adequate treatment, and the social vulnerability of this population contribute to TB control being a major challenge, impacting not only incarcerated individuals but also prison staff and the surrounding community. This study aimed to describe new TB cases among the population deprived of liberty (PDL) in the state of Sergipe. This is an observational study using data from new TB cases in the state of Sergipe from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2024. TB cases among the PDL were analyzed according to variables from the notification and follow-up forms. Of the 8,053 new TB cases reported during the studied decade, 1,232 (15.3%) occurred among the PDL. The vast majority were male (98.5%), and 85% were classified as Black population. Almost all cases presented the pulmonary form (98%). HIV serology was performed in 87.1% of cases and was positive in 32 (2.6%). Among TB cases in the PDL, 49.2% reported illicit drug use and 34.2% reported alcohol use. Regarding treatment outcomes, cure was observed in 75% of cases, treatment abandonment in 9%, and deaths in 1%. The study demonstrates that the PDL contributes significantly to the total number of TB cases in the state. This reinforces the urgency of specific health policies for this group, given the concentration of the disease in this environment. TB among the PDL reflects social and racial inequalities, aggravated by environmental conditions and the high prevalence of comorbidities. The results reinforce the need to strengthen health policies within prisons, focusing on screening and early diagnosis actions and strategies to prevent treatment abandonment.