In which individuals is tuberculosis more likely to develop?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other areas of the body. The correct choice highlights that individuals whose immune systems are weakened by illness are more likely to develop tuberculosis. This is largely because a weakened immune system has a reduced ability to fight off infections, including TB.

People with conditions such as HIV/AIDS, certain cancers, diabetes, or those undergoing immunosuppressive treatments (like chemotherapy or prolonged steroid use) are at greater risk. When the immune system is compromised, the body cannot effectively control the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis, increasing the chances of latent TB progressing to active disease.

In contrast, individuals with strong immune systems or those who are healthy have better defenses against infections, including TB. Previous vaccinations, such as the BCG vaccine, may also confer some level of protection against severe manifestations of the disease, though they do not completely eliminate the risk of infection in every individual. Therefore, the correct response underscores the importance of the immune status in the development of tuberculosis.