Epidemiological Features of Tuberculosis in the Region of Prizren

Aim: The aim of our research was to analyse the epidemiological features of tuberculosis in the Prizren region, its trend, and compare its incidence at the national level. In this study, data from the Institute of Public Health in Prizren and tuberculosis disease registration forms were utilized. The data were processed and analysed using descriptive epidemiological methods. Microsoft Excel 2016 was used for the analysis of results and presentation in tables and graphs. During the period from 2018 to 2022, 340 cases of tuberculosis were recorded in the Prizren region. Of these, 59% were male and 41% were female. The highest number of recorded cases was in 2019, with the municipality of Prizren being the most affected at the regional level. The age group most affected by TB during this period was 15-24 years old with 76 cases, followed by 72 cases in the age group /+/65 years, and 67 cases in the 25-34 age group. Pulmonary tuberculosis was recorded in the majority of cases, while extrapulmonary tuberculosis was noted in fewer cases. New cases predominated at over 90%, while recurrences occurred in 10% of cases. The average incidence of tuberculosis in the Prizren region for the period 2018-2022 was 31.9 per 100,000 inhabitants, while at the national level it was about 34.4 per 100,000 inhabitants. The incidence of tuberculosis showed an increasing trend in the Prizren region as well as at the national level. Adolescents and young adults are the most affected. This needs further investigation, and institutions should be more active in preventing and treating tuberculosis. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of Public health & Epidemiology. These implications could encompass Public health sector in Prizren region. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the originality of the research, either through the scientific epidemiological approach, the discovery of the epidemiological features of Tuberculosis in this region or practical contributions. The importance and value of this research is evidenced by the emphasis on the epidemiological features of tuberculosis and the practice of prevention and treatment of this disease.