Completeness of tuberculosis records held on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (SINAN) in Santa Catarina, Brazil, 2007-2016

Epidemiol Serv Saude. 2020;29(3):e2019606. doi: 10.5123/s1679-49742020000300020. Epub 2020 Jul 8.
[Article in English, Portuguese]

Abstract

Objective to describe the completeness of tuberculosis (TB) case records in Santa Catarina, Brazil, from 2007 to 2016. Methods this was a descriptive study using Notifiable Health Conditions Information System data; completeness, consistency of notification form records and timely notification were analyzed in order to assess data quality. Results completeness of notification form mandatory fields was considered good; essential fields were less complete, in particular the 'Schooling' field; low completeness of follow-up sputum smear microscopy and failure to update culture tests and HIV serology tests demonstrate weaknesses in follow-up records. Conclusion the tuberculosis surveillance system data were considered adequate for guiding tuberculosis prevention and control actions; record monitoring and periodical evaluation, as well as adoption of strategies to improve follow-up report completeness are recommended.

MeSH terms

  • Brazil / epidemiology
  • Data Accuracy*
  • Disease Notification* / standards
  • Humans
  • Information Systems* / standards
  • Tuberculosis* / epidemiology