What percentage of individuals with tuberculosis will develop active disease?

The correct answer is 10% because current medical understanding indicates that about 10% of individuals who are infected with the tuberculosis (TB) bacteria will develop active disease at some point in their lives. This often occurs over a span of several years after initial infection.

Individuals can remain asymptomatic and will not show signs of the disease, indicating latent TB infection, for long periods. However, certain risk factors, such as a weakened immune system or other health conditions, can increase the likelihood of the infection progressing to active disease. The understanding that around one in ten people will eventually develop active tuberculosis highlights the importance of monitoring and treating latent TB infections to prevent the progression to active disease.

The other percentages provided in the choices do not reflect the general epidemiological data regarding TB progression accurately. For instance, 5% would underestimate the lifetime risk of developing active disease, while percentages such as 20% or 50% suggest much higher risks that do not align with established health statistics regarding tuberculosis.