Understanding how tuberculosis spreads among people who use illicit drugs
Transmission Of Tuberculosis Among illicit drug use Linkages (TOTAL)
This study is looking at how tuberculosis spreads among people who use drugs like meth and aims to find ways to catch and treat TB early, helping to keep everyone healthier, especially those at higher risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10674749 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the transmission of tuberculosis (TB) within networks of illicit drug users, particularly focusing on those who smoke methamphetamine and methaqualone. By identifying and treating individuals with TB early, the study aims to reduce the incidence and mortality associated with this infectious disease. The researchers will use a method called respondent-driven sampling to recruit 750 participants, both with and without HIV, to better understand the dynamics of TB transmission in this high-risk population. The findings could lead to improved strategies for TB case identification and treatment linkage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who smoke illicit drugs, particularly methamphetamine and methaqualone, and may be at risk for TB infection.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use illicit drugs or are not part of the identified high-risk networks may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce TB transmission rates among vulnerable populations, ultimately saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting specific high-risk groups can effectively reduce the spread of infectious diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Medical Center — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jacobson, Karen R — Boston Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Jacobson, Karen R
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.