Alcohol Brewing and the African Tuberculosis Epidemic

Abstract

Countries in much of Africa are struggling with large tuberculosis (TB) epidemics. Although the treatment programs are being implemented as well as the many constraints allow, more prevention of TB is needed. Based on literature on alcohol and TB, and observations and case studies, we consider one potential area for intervention might be the popular and ubiquitous small bars and beer huts in many towns and cities. In these usually poverty-ridden sites, with their densely packed clientele, large amounts of alcohol are consumed often by those with compromised immune systems who are at risk of acquiring the disease. The alcohol brewers—called Mama Pimas (from kupima, to measure, in Kiswahili) in Kenya—are the subject of this editorial. We look at the risks and potential benefits of reaching these women. Medical anthropologists are needed to help provide better evidence for TB prevention programs.

Key Words:

• alcohol production
• alcohol use
• Kenya
• tuberculosis risk and prevention

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kate Macintyre

KATE MACINTYRE is Associate Professor in International Health Policy and Evaluation in the Department of International Health and Development at Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. She lives in Kenya, working regionally and globally on issues related to infectious diseases.

Emily Bloss

EMILY BLOSS conducted this research as a doctoral student and Fulbright Scholar in the Department of International Health and Development at Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.