Which population is at greater risk for developing tuberculosis?

Individuals living in crowded conditions are at greater risk for developing tuberculosis (TB) due to the transmission dynamics of the disease. TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which primarily spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. In crowded environments, the likelihood of inhaling these infectious droplets increases significantly, facilitating the spread of the bacteria from person to person.

This heightened risk is particularly observable in settings such as prisons, homeless shelters, or densely populated urban areas, where ventilation may be poor, and individuals are in close proximity to one another. The combination of close contact and inadequate ventilation is a key factor in the higher prevalence of TB in these populations.

In contrast, individuals with strong immune systems, a high level of physical activity, and those consuming a balanced diet are generally better equipped to resist infections, including TB. While various factors can influence susceptibility to infections, the living conditions characterized by overcrowding are a predominant risk factor for TB transmission.