Tuberculosis (TB) remains the number one cause of mortality from an infectious disease globally. Malnutrition is both a driver and a result of TB and is associated with disease progression and unfavorable treatment outcomes.
Methods:
We reviewed medical charts for people starting treatment for active TB in seven Colorado counties to describe the prevalence of malnutrition and its association with selected demographic, clinical, and social factors. Malnutrition was defined as body mass index (BMI) 5% of total body weight in 6 months or >10% at any time point.
Results:
Eighty-three patients began treatment in 2025. Of these, 17 (20%) met our definition of malnutrition. Ten patients had a BMI