Epidemiological aspects of tuberculosis on outcomes related to race and skin color in Brazil: a systematic review

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, remains a significant public health challenge, especially in contexts of social inequality. In Brazil, TB-related morbidity and mortality are influenced by historically rooted social and racial factors. This study analyzed the association between race or skin color and TB outcomes through a systematic review of observational studies published between 2019 and 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. The search was conducted in national and international databases, with data selection and extraction performed in pairs. The synthesis indicated that Black and Brown individuals are at greater risk of disease progression, treatment abandonment, and death. The results highlight the role of structural racism in TB care and reinforce the need for equity-oriented public policies. Addressing racial inequities is essential for TB control in Brazil.