Which children are considered at a higher risk for tuberculosis?

The identification of children at a higher risk for tuberculosis (TB) often focuses on factors such as underlying health conditions, living situations, and geographic areas. A child born in Japan is considered at higher risk primarily due to the prevalence of TB in certain countries, including Japan, where the incidence of the disease can be significant compared to regions with lower rates. Children from countries with high TB rates, particularly where the disease is endemic, are often targeted for screening and preventive measures.

When evaluating the other scenarios, each presents a notable risk factor, but the direct association with increased TB incidence is less pronounced. A child diagnosed with leukemia does have a compromised immune system, raising their risk for infections, but leukemia's direct relation to TB is less certain without further context of their exposure history. An infant from a homeless family faces various health risks, including increased exposure to TB due to crowded living conditions. However, this is more situational and does not directly correlate with the disease's prevalence unless there is known exposure to an active case. Lastly, while a Hispanic child using a steroid inhaler may experience a heightened risk for respiratory infections due to the immunosuppressive effects of steroids, the overall risk of TB specifically linked to ethnicity without a known exposure or endemic background