RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Migrant tuberculosis screening in the EU/EEA: yield, coverage and limitations
JF European Respiratory Journal
JO Eur Respir J
FD European Respiratory Society
SP 1180
OP 1189
DO 10.1183/09031936.00038009
VO 34
IS 5
A1 E. Klinkenberg
A1 D. Manissero
A1 J. C. Semenza
A1 S. Verver
YR 2009
UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/34/5/1180.abstract
AB A systematic literature review was performed with the objective of assessing the effectiveness of tuberculosis (TB) screening methods and strategies in migrants in European Union/European Economic Area (including Switzerland) countries. Extracted data on yield and coverage were used as indicators of effectiveness. Reported yields varied considerably between studies and countries. Considering only the 14 studies representative of national screening programmes, a median yield of TB disease of 0.18% (interquartile range 0.10–0.35%) was reported. The data did not indicate differences in effectiveness between the three main strategies: 1) screening at port of entry; 2) screening just after arrival in reception/holding centres; and 3) screening in the community following arrival in European Union countries. The variation seen probably reflects variation in risk factors for TB, in particular the composition of the migrants entering the country. Recommendations include the need for improved data for guiding the optimal frequency and duration of screening; assessment and improvement of cost-effectiveness; access to healthcare for migrants, including illegal migrants; ensuring a continuum of care for those screened; and consideration of screening for latent TB infection with caution. Finally, screening should be a component of a wider approach, rather than a stand-alone intervention.