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What Age is TB For?

Published in TB Age Risk 2 mins read

Tuberculosis (TB) can affect people of all ages, but the risk and presentation vary.

High-Risk Groups:

  • Young Children (Under 5): Children under 5 are especially vulnerable to developing severe TB disease. Their immune systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infection. [Source: TB in children, England, 2022 - GOV.UK; Tuberculosis in Children | Tuberculosis (TB) | CDC]

  • Older Children and Adolescents (15+): Older children (15 and older) have a similar risk and clinical presentation of TB as adults. [Source: TB in children, England, 2022 - GOV.UK]

  • Elderly: The TB epidemic is most prevalent in the elderly, with notification rates increasing with age. [Source: Tuberculosis in the Elderly - PMC]

Other Age Groups:

While young children and the elderly are at higher risk, TB can affect individuals of all ages. The disease is present in all countries and across all age groups. [Source: Tuberculosis - WHO] However, the likelihood of developing active TB disease, and its severity, differs based on age and immune status. [Source: Tuberculosis in Children and Teens - HealthyChildren.org]

TB Risk Factors:

Risk of contracting TB isn't solely determined by age but also by other factors such as:

  • Exposure to infected individuals: Close contact with someone with active TB significantly increases the risk.
  • Weakened immune system: Individuals with compromised immune systems are more vulnerable to developing active TB.
  • Underlying health conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase susceptibility.

In summary: TB is a disease that affects people of all ages, with young children and the elderly being particularly vulnerable due to their immune systems. However, the risk is influenced by various factors beyond age alone.