The report said that TB, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), remains one of the most significant opportunistic infections (OIs) among PLHIV in India.

From 2021-22 to 2024-25, the proportion of PLHIV screened for TB remained consistently high at 95% or more, reflecting strong adherence to TB screening and effective implementation of testing services.

However, TB diagnosis among PLHIV from 2021-22 to 2024-25 showed a gradual decline, from 7.2% in 2021-22 and 2022-23 to 5.8% in 2023-24, and further to 4.9% in 2024-25. This can be attributed to enhanced prevention efforts and treatment coverage leading to a decrease in transmission, said the report.

Active TB may affect the lungs (pulmonary TB) or spread beyond the lungs to involve the lymph nodes, pleura, abdomen, central nervous system, bones, joints, or skin (extrapulmonary TB). Recognising the impact of the dual epidemic, the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) has implemented several strategic measures to address HIV-TB co-infection across the country effectively. “A cornerstone of this effort is the integration of HIV and TB services, aimed at ensuring comprehensive, patient-centred care,” the report added.

Under this model, all PLHIV attending ART Centres are screened for TB symptoms. At the same time, all TB patients are tested for HIV to enable early diagnosis and timely care.