Determining the value of TB active case-finding: current evidence and methodological considerations

Sohn, H., Sweeney, S., Mudzengi, D., Creswell, J., Menzies, N.A., Fox, G.J., MacPherson, P. and Dowdy, D.W. (2021) Determining the value of TB active case-finding: current evidence and methodological considerations. International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, 25(3), pp. 171-181. (doi: 10.5588/ijtld.20.0565) (PMID:33688805) (PMCID:PMC9333998)

Abstract

Active case-finding (ACF) is an important component of the End TB Strategy. However, ACF is resource-intensive, and the economics of ACF are not well-understood. Data on the costs of ACF are limited, with little consistency in the units and methods used to estimate and report costs. Mathematical models to forecast the long-term effects of ACF require empirical measurements of the yield, timing and costs of case detection. Pragmatic trials offer an opportunity to assess the cost-effectiveness of ACF interventions within a ‘real-world´ context. However, such analyses generally require early introduction of economic evaluations to enable prospective data collection on resource requirements. Closing the global case-detection gap will require substantial additional resources, including continued investment in innovative technologies. Research is essential to the optimal implementation, cost-effectiveness, and affordability of ACF in high-burden settings. To assess the value of ACF, we must prioritize the collection of high-quality data regarding costs and effectiveness, and link those data to analytical models that are adapted to local settings.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: MacPherson, Professor Peter
• Authors: Sohn, H., Sweeney, S., Mudzengi, D., Creswell, J., Menzies, N.A., Fox, G.J., MacPherson, P., and Dowdy, D.W.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Public Health
• Journal Name: International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease
• Publisher: International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease
• ISSN: 1027-3719
• ISSN (Online): 1815-7920