Advances in screening and preventive treatment for latent tuberculosis infection in China
XIAO Xiao1, CHEN Bin2, LIU Qiao3, SHEN Xin1
1. Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 201107, China; 2. Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310051, China; 3. Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
Abstract：China has entered a phase of low-to-moderate tuberculosis (TB) prevalence. However, the large population with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) remains a key bottleneck to ending the TB epidemic. This paper reviews the policy evolution and current implementation of LTBI screening and preventive therapy in China. It also analyzes the practical challenges in current TB control. China's LTBI control policies have gradually shifted from pilot exploration to the national strategic level. In practice, China has achieved notable progress in several areas. These include independent innovation in screening technology, evidence-based optimization of short-course preventive regimens, and steady expansion of coverage. However, LTBI control still faces multiple challenges. These include low public awareness, limitations in diagnostic technology, poor adherence to preventive therapy, and a weak support system. Based on these findings, we recommend that precise screening, short-course treatment, and systematic support serve as core development directions. These efforts should promote the transition of LTBI control in China from "pilot exploration" to "routine institutional practice".
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