The Co-occurrence of Tuberculosis and Cardiovascular Diseases in Uzbekistan: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Approaches

Tuberculosis (TB) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) often co-occur in regions with high disease burdens, posing significant clinical and diagnostic challenges. However, limited research exists on the intersection of TB and CVD in resource-limited settings. This study assessed perceptions of 100 healthcare professionals in Uzbekistan, including doctors, nurses, and researchers with varying pulmonology and cardiology expertise, regarding diagnostic challenges and management strategies for concurrent TB and CVD. Using a mixed-methods approach, key findings revealed overlapping symptoms, insufficient diagnostic resources, and the frequent occurrence of TB-related pericarditis and myocarditis. Participants strongly advocated for integrated management protocols and systemic reforms, emphasizing the need for investments in diagnostic infrastructure, training programs, and public awareness. These findings underscore the necessity for further research into integrated care models and their feasibility in low-resource settings, offering valuable insights for clinical practice and policy development in regions where TB and CVD are endemic.