Tuberculosis in children under 5 years of age in a low-burden setting: sociodemographic and epidemiological characteristics and healthcare utilization over a 10-year period (2010-2021)

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2026

Authors

Fronteira, I (Author) Other; Pacheco, M (Author) Other; Vilichane, I (Author) Other; Ricardo, E (Author) Other; Aguiar, P (Author) Other; Duarte R (Author) ICBAS; Ferrinho, P (Author) Other

Journal

Title: European Journal of Pediatrics

Vol. 185

ISSN: 0340-6199

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-01A-VC7

DOI: 10.1007/s00431-025-06704-6

Abstract (EN): Purpose To describe the sociodemographic and epidemiological characteristics and healthcare utilization patterns-primary healthcare (PHC) use, emergency department (ED) visits, and hospital admissions-of children under 5 years of age born in Portugal between July 1, 2010, and June 30, 2021, and diagnosed with TB during the same period. Methods This is a quantitative, observational cohort study of 58 children diagnosed with TB and reported to the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (SINAVE) before age 5. Data were obtained through linkage of five population-based databases. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses were conducted. Incidence rates of PHC, ED visits, and hospital admissions were calculated per 1000 person-days. Results Most TB cases (81.0%) were diagnosed between ages 1 and 5; 55.2% were male, and 72.2% resided in metropolitan areas. Over half (58.6%) were unvaccinated with BCG. Unvaccinated children were diagnosed earlier than vaccinated peers (p < 0.01), though no significant differences were found in the clinical presentation of TB, risk factors, or healthcare utilization. Pulmonary TB was most common (51.7%), and 68.4% of children were hospitalized. PHC services were underutilized (32.7%), while ED visits were more frequent, primarily for infectious and respiratory conditions. One child died, with TB diagnosed post-mortem. Conclusions: TB in young children remains a public health concern in Portugal, especially in unvaccinated populations. Strengthening PHC access and preventive care is essential to improve early detection and outcomes.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 10