Tuberculosis and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis epidemiology at Al-Kuwaifiya Hospital (2019–2023)

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, remains a major public health challenge in low‑ and middle‑income countries. The rise of multidrug‑resistant TB (MDR‑TB) poses a serious obstacle to disease control. Aim: To determine the incidence, demographic distribution, and outcomes of TB and MDR‑TB among patients attending Al‑Kuwaifiya Hospital in Benghazi, Libya, between 2019 and 2023. Methods: A retrospective hospital‑based study was conducted from January 2019 to December 2023. Medical records of 806 patients were reviewed. Data on age, gender, nationality, and occupation were analyzed. Incidence rates per 100,000 population and seasonal variations were assessed. Results: TB incidence fluctuated, with rates of 17 (2019), 12 (2020), 9 (2021), 11 (2022), and 14 (2023) per 100,000 population. Seasonal peaks occurred in March (11.0%), with the lowest incidence in December (6.5%). Males accounted for 77% of cases, and young adults aged 21–35 years comprised 53.6%. MDR‑TB prevalence was 3%. Mortality was 2.5% (20/806), significantly higher among females (p = 0.020) and older patients (p < 0.001). Conclusion: TB in Benghazi predominantly affects young Libyan males, with occupational vulnerability among private sector workers and the unemployed. Despite low MDR‑TB prevalence, under‑detection persists, highlighting the need for strengthened diagnostics and targeted interventions.