24/03/2025
Tuberculosis (TB): A Global Health Concern
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other organs. Despite being preventable and curable, TB remains a leading cause of death worldwide.
Key Facts About TB:
• Transmission: Spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• Symptoms: Persistent cough (lasting over 2 weeks), fever, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, and chest pain.
• Diagnosis: Common methods include sputum smear microscopy, GeneXpert (PCR), and chest X-rays.
• Treatment: A standard 6-month antibiotic regimen, including drugs like isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide.
• Drug Resistance: Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) is a rising challenge due to improper use of antibiotics.
TB Prevention & Control:
• Early diagnosis and complete treatment adherence
• Vaccination with BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin)
• Proper ventilation and infection control measures
• Public awareness to reduce stigma and encourage testing
TB is curable with proper treatment, but global efforts are needed to eliminate it. “Yes! We Can End TB” is this year’s World TB Day theme, emphasizing collective action in the fight against this disease.