Tuberculosis (TB) emerged as an epidemic in the 1600s, began to decline as sanitation improved in the 19th century, and retreated further when effective therapy was developed in the 1950s. TB was virtually forgotten until a recent resurgence in the United States and around the world -- ominously, in forms resistant to commonly used medicines.
What must we do to eliminate TB? A distinguished committee from the Institute of Medicine offers recommendations in the key areas of epidemiology and prevention, diagnosis and treatment, funding and organization of public initiatives, and the U.S. role worldwide.
The book provides important background on the pathology of tuberculosis, its history and status in the U.S., and the public and private response, with helpful case studies. It explores:
-- Strategies to ensure that success in curbing TB will not lead to another period of neglect and yet another resurgence.
-- The case for targeted TB screening in high-risk populations and treatment of latent infection, including privacy issues and implications for immigration.
-- Research needs in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
This comprehensive volume explains how the United States can act with both self-interest and humanitarianism in addressing the worldwide incidence of TB.