ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: In the context of prisons, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a major problem. In this article, we estimate the prevalence of MDR-TB among the population deprived of freedom from countries in South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. METHODS: The articles were retrieved through systematic search at four databases (EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS and MEDILINE). The meta-analysis was developed by the random effect model, using the Mantel-Haenszel method, with presentation of the aggregated results through the forest plot. The degree of heterogeneity between the studies was verified using Cochran's Q test and I2. RESULTS: Of the 102 articles analyzed, 21 were included in this systematic review. The analysis showed heterogeneity indicated by the Q test (P â< â0.001) and I2 statistics (I2 â= â50.52%). The funnel graph and Egger test (P â< â0.830) showed symmetry between investigations. The grouped prevalence of MDR-TB was 0.48% (95% CI: 0.02 to 1.32), advancing to 1.15 (95% CI: 0.15 to 2.73) when culture and sensitivity test were considered by the authors. No specific characteristics were significantly associated with differences in prevalence rates in the population deprived of freedom. CONCLUSION: The study reaffirms the magnitude of MDR-TB in the population deprived of freedom in the world context. Political and technical-scientific efforts should be mobilized to mitigate TB and MDR-TB in prisons and for successful national and international disease control programs.
