Aim: to examine recent trends in tuberculosis in New Zealand.
Methods: histologically and bacteriologically confirmed cases of tuberculosis notified to area health boards from 1985 to 1990 were analysed.
Results: a total of 843 cases were reported during 1985-90 for an average annual incidence rate of 4.2 cases per 100,000 population; incidence rates for each year were similar. The incidence of tuberculosis was higher among males than females and increased with age. Maori were five times more likely to develop tuberculosis than Europeans, Pacific Islanders were 10 times more likely, and persons of other ethnic groups combined were 15 times more likely. From 1985 to 1990, the number of cases decreased among Europeans, remained stable among Maori and Pacific Islanders, and increased among persons of other ethnic origin.
Conclusion: although the overall incidence of tuberculosis is relatively low, it continues to be a public health problem in New Zealand, particularly among Maori and immigrants from Asia and the Pacific Islands.