1.5 million annual tuberculosis deaths reported by WHO

Every year, tuberculosis, or TB, sickens about 10 million people and kills around 1.5 million, making it one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted these alarming numbers as it prepares for World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, 2025. World Tuberculosis Day was established by Dr. Robert Koch in 1882 to raise awareness of the disease. This year, the WHO's theme is “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” urging action against the epidemic. Many organizations and hospitals take part in this day to promote awareness and support for TB elimination efforts. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and primarily affects the lungs. It is linked to other serious health conditions, especially in people with HIV. TB is also a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The WHO reassures that TB is curable with a six-month treatment using four different antibiotics, which are widely available. Common medications include rifampicin and isoniazid. However, some TB cases do not respond to standard drugs, leading to drug-resistant TB, which requires longer and more complicated treatment. Medical support is crucial throughout the treatment process to ensure patients adhere to their treatment plans and prevent the disease from spreading. Symptoms of TB can include a severe cough lasting three weeks or more, chest pain, and coughing up blood. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of recognizing these signs and seeking treatment promptly.