A national computer-based surveillance system for tuberculosis notification in Singapore.

SETTING

The notification rate of tuberculosis (TB) among residents in Singapore has been declining at a mean rate of 5.6% per annum, from 307 cases per 100,000 population in 1960 to 54 cases per 100,000 population in 1992. A National TB Notification Registry was set up in 1958 using a manual card system, and was captured into a computer database from 1986.

OBJECTIVE

To monitor epidemiological trends of TB in Singapore with more speed, versatility and analytical capabilities, a new microcomputer-based surveillance system was developed in 1993.

DESIGN

The main software programmes used in this system were DBase IV (version 1.5) and Epi Info (version 5). These versions could use base memory interchangeably and were therefore incorporated into a single application DBase programme. Security features were incorporated into the programme. The TB database was linked to the National HIV Notification Registry to enhance surveillance of combined TB and human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV).

RESULTS

The system was able to track notifications and TB culture results, address letters and analyze data and enabled prompt dissemination of information.

CONCLUSION

The authors believe that this system would enhance surveillance and provide timely information for national TB control programmes. However, the effectiveness of this system is dependent on an established notification structure with notifications for tuberculosis of sufficient completeness.