Prevalence of Tuberculosis Among HIV Patients

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of illness and death among people living with HIV, particularly in countries with high dual prevalence. HIV-induced immune suppression increases susceptibility to new TB infections, reactivates latent TB, and accelerates progression to active disease. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the microbiological, clinical, and epidemiological aspects of TB-HIV coinfection. Key contributing factors to TB in HIV-positive individuals include malnutrition, tobacco use, advanced age, exposure to infectious TB cases, and poor living conditions. Diagnostic limitations and atypical presentations complicate timely detection. Treatment is further challenged by drug interactions, adverse effects, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), and rising drug resistance. Integrated strategies—such as early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART), routine TB screening, TB preventive therapy (TPT), and coordinated healthcare services are essential to improving outcomes. Strengthening public health infrastructure and implementing targeted prevention and treatment interventions are critical for reducing the dual burden of TB and HIV.