Who is at a higher risk of developing multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB)?

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) predominantly arises in individuals who do not adhere to their tuberculosis treatment regimen. When patients do not consistently take their TB medication, the bacteria have the opportunity to survive and mutate, leading to strains that become resistant to the antibiotics commonly used to treat the disease. Inadequate treatment can result from missed doses, interruption of the treatment course, or a lack of understanding about the importance of completing the full regimen, all of which contribute to the development of drug resistance.

The risk is particularly acute in those who start treatment but do not complete it or adhere to the prescribed schedule, often because of side effects or a perception that they are no longer infectious. This highlights the significance of public health strategies aimed at ensuring patient compliance and educating them about the nature of their illness and the importance of completing therapy.

While individuals from lower-prevalence areas, those with no history of TB exposure, and those who take their medications consistently are generally at a lower risk for contracting MDR TB, non-compliance with medication is a critical factor in the emergence of resistant strains. Thus, adherence to a complete and regular TB treatment regimen is crucial to preventing MDR TB.