The association between exposure to air pollutants and latent tuberculosis infection prevalence in the elderly population: a population-based cross-sectional study from China

Background: Globally, research on the direct correlation between air pollutants and latent tuberculosis (TB) infection (LTBI) is still relatively scarce. We aimed to conduct a cross-sectional study of LTBI across regions with varying air quality to assess whether air pollution affects the burden of TB infection. Methods: ), sulphur dioxide, and ozone across various time periods by integrating satellite remote sensing data with ground-based monitoring data. We used logistic regression and weighted pollution models to assess the relationship between air pollutants and the prevalence of LTBI. Results: and the prevalence of LTBI was more pronounced in populations with a household per capita income < 5000 RMB, daily ventilation time < 0.5 hours, and the use of non-renewable energy for cooking (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The research indicates that prolonged exposure to air pollutants substantially elevates the odds of LTBI in Chinese cities, exhibiting regional disparities. This underscores the significance of managing air pollution to prevent and control TB.