Researchers analysed surveillance data and a national survey to estimate delays in tuberculosis diagnosis in London from 1998 to 2000.
They found a median delay of 49 days. Delays between onset of symptoms and diagnosis were more likely for white patients and women. This might be because tuberculosis may be suspected and investigated more readily among men or black or Asian people, suggest the authors.
Recent campaigns have appropriately tried to raise awareness of tuberculosis, particularly among ethnic minority groups, say the authors. "Our data suggest that campaigns also need to be targeted at white people, who comprise a third of cases, they conclude.
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