In a recent review published in the journal BMC Global and Public Health, researchers explored the current evidence on nutritionally acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (N-AIDS). They discussed why N-AIDS needs to be recognized as a crucial determinant and comorbidity among tuberculosis (TB) patients across the globe. They have emphasized the importance of addressing nutrition with a priority equivalent to human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) to mitigate the TB pandemic and improve overall outcomes.
Perspective: Nutritionally acquired immunodeficiency must be addressed with the same urgency as HIV to end tuberculosis. Image Credit: Kateryna Kon / Shutterstock
Background
Research in the past few decades has helped establish HIV as a determinant and comorbidity of TB, leading to integrated screening and care protocols. However, malnutrition, or N-AIDS, emerges as the primary cause of secondary immunodeficiency. Malnourished individuals, akin to those with HIV, face increased infection risks, and the association between malnutrition and TB has been established for a century. The current review emphasizes the recognition of malnutrition as a significant determining factor and comorbidity of TB to accelerate detection, treatment, and prevention efforts aimed at addressing the TB pandemic.
Detection of TB
Early detection and treatment of TB are essential for eliminating the disease, especially considering that more than four million TB cases go undiagnosed globally. Individuals with active TB remain contagious for months before diagnosis, underscoring the need for earlier intervention. Weight loss is a subtle yet significant symptom, with over 50% of TB patients in high-burden countries being malnourished at diagnosis. The