Tuberculosis in Chile: from control to elimination, a difficult road

Abstract

The feasibility of ing reach the goal of elimination of Tuberculosis in Chile is again discussed. This goal is now a Ministry of Health objective. The intermediate goal, “advanced elimination”, incidence rate of 10 x 100.000 for the year 2010, was designed as, a “Heath Objetive” for the decennium 2000 – 2010. As regards the future perspectives, we analize the obstacles faced in Chile in relation to the possible effects of the new health system structure on the evolution of Tuberculosis in the country. Furthermore, or the possibility of reaching the final goal, will depends on several factors especially related to the growing importance of high risk groups as the total incidence is reduced. It is imperative to develop specific programs for these groups.