Tuberculosis has reclaimed its notorious title as the top infectious disease killer, surpassing COVID-19, according to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) report. This disturbing trend highlights the persistent challenges in eradicating TB, despite having the tools to prevent, detect, and treat it. In 2023, approximately 8.2 million people were newly diagnosed with TB, the highest number since the WHO began monitoring the disease globally in 1995.
Key Challenges:
Underfunding: The fight against TB faces significant funding gaps, hindering efforts to combat the disease.
Multidrug-resistant TB: This form of TB remains a public health crisis, with only about 2 in 5 people accessing treatment in 2023.
Global Milestones: Targets for reducing the disease burden are off-track, requiring considerable progress to meet 2027 goals.
The fact that TB still kills and sickens so many people is an outrage, when we have the tools to prevent it, detect it and treat itDr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General
This surge is particularly concerning in low- and middle-income countries, which bear 98% of the disease burden and face significant funding shortages. The WHO reports that 187 countries have committed to ending TB by 2035. Expanding preventive treatment to vulnerable populations, such as those living with and household contacts of TB patients.
The Way Forward:
To combat TB effectively, it's essential to address these challenges. The WHO emphasizes the need for increased funding, improved access to treatment, and enhanced prevention measures.
Funding for TB research and treatment lags behind other global health priorities. Civil society organizations emphasized a vital role in advocating for TB funding and awareness.
References:
https://www.who.int/news/item/29-10-2024-tuberculosis-resurges-as-top-infectious-disease-killer
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)