Prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Among HIV Positive Patients Attending Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi Between 2013-2023

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of HIV-related morbidity and mortality, with HIV serving as the strongest driver of the TB epidemic. HIV-positive individuals face rapid disease progression, higher TB treatment failure, and increased mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings like Nigeria. This study assessed the prevalence and factors associated with TB/HIV co-infection at the HTC/Chest Clinic of Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi. A cross-sectional design was employed, targeting patients aged 10 years and above diagnosed with TB/HIV, enrolled in the CD4 club, and accessing ART services between 2013 and 2023. Using systematic random sampling, 80 participants were selected based on Cochrane’s formula. Data were analyzed using percentages, means, and regression in SPSS version 23, with significance set at p<0.05. Findings revealed a TB/HIV co-infection prevalence of 61.25%. Age, gender, and occupation were significantly associated with co-infection (p=0.00). Females showed a higher rate of co-infection (59.18%) compared to males (40.82%), reflecting the broader HIV burden among women, which predisposes them to TB by reactivating latent infection. Farmers (34.69%), drivers (24.49%), and officers (24.49%) recorded the highest prevalence, likely due to occupational exposure, diverse social contact, and limited awareness. The most affected age group was 31–50 years, aligning with the sexually active and economically productive population. Correlation analysis showed a modest association with age (r=0.131) but a strong link with sex (male r=0.954, female r=0.989) and occupation (r=-0.888). This study highlights the high TB/HIV co-infection burden in Benue State, particularly among women and individuals in high-contact occupations, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.