Tuberculosis is making a troubling comeback in Montreal, raising the question: what is driving this resurgence? Simon Grandjean Lapierre, a clinical professor at the University de Montréal and a researcher at the CHUM Research Centre, provides a clear answer: the increase in cases is linked to factors such as population mobility, precarious living conditions, and inadequate screening.
Since 2023, Lapierre has observed a significant rise in tuberculosis cases on the Island of Montreal. “We’ve seen a significant increase in cases on the Island of Montreal since 2023,” he stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Tuberculosis, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, was steadily decreasing in Canada since the 1950s, but the COVID-19 pandemic has reversed this trend.
At the CHUM, between 20 and 40 tuberculosis cases are diagnosed each year, a number that is now on the rise. Lapierre describes tuberculosis as a “re-emerging disease,” emphasizing that without appropriate public health actions, the risk remains for everyone. The resurgence is concerning not only for public health but also for the broader community.
Lapierre leads a translational research program focused on tuberculosis control in both Canada and Madagascar. His team is currently developing new diagnostic tools to identify antibiotic resistance in tuberculosis bacteria, a critical step in managing this infectious disease. In Madagascar, they are conducting a three-year study involving 46,000 participants, which aims to enhance understanding and control of tuberculosis.
As the situation evolves, the community must remain vigilant. The increase in tuberculosis cases serves as a reminder of the importance of public health measures and the need for continued research and intervention. Details remain unconfirmed about the full impact of these factors, but the urgency for action is clear.
