Nutrition assessment and counselling in individuals with active tuberculosis

In 2012 there were an estimated 8.6 million new cases of tuberculosis (TB) globally. TB morbidity and mortality are highest in developing countries.

Undernutrition increases the risk of tuberculosis and vice-versa and, as a result, undernutrition is highly prevalent among people with tuberculosis. It has been demonstrated that undernutrition is a risk factor for progression from tuberculosis infection to active tuberculosis disease and that undernutrition at the time of diagnosis of active tuberculosis is a predictor of increased risk of death and tuberculosis relapse. However, the evidence concerning the effect of nutritional supplementation on tuberculosis prevention and health outcomes among people with tuberculosis had not previously been systematically reviewed.

Nutrition assessment and counselling are critical components of managing undernutrition in individuals with active tuberculosis.