While COVID-19 remains a hot topic, it’s no longer the deadliest infectious disease on the planet. That grim title now belongs to tuberculosis, a silent killer reclaiming its devastating throne.
A recent World Health Organization report paints a sobering picture: last year, a staggering 10.8 million people were diagnosed with tuberculosis, with 8.2 million being new cases. Tragically, 1.25 million of these individuals succumbed to the disease.
Although COVID-19 deaths have dramatically decreased thanks to vaccines and treatments, the virus still claimed 320,000 lives in the past year.
“The fact that TB continues to claim so many lives is appalling, especially when we possess the tools to prevent, detect, and treat it,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, in a powerful statement. “WHO urges all nations to fulfill their commitments to increase access to these tools and finally eradicate TB.”
The number of new infections last year marked the highest since WHO began tracking tuberculosis in 1995, a chilling reminder of the disease’s resurgence.
Primarily affecting people in 30 countries, over half of global cases are concentrated in India (26%), Indonesia (10%), China (6.8%), the Philippines (6.8%), and Pakistan (6.3%).
Ironically, COVID-19 played a role in the surge of tuberculosis cases. Disruptions caused by the pandemic hampered tuberculosis services worldwide, allowing the disease to spread unchecked. Adding to the problem is a drug-resistant strain of tuberculosis, while global funding for tuberculosis prevention has dwindled. Research funding for tuberculosis treatments also fell woefully short, reaching only 20% of its target in 2022, according to the WHO.
Tuberculosis, caused by a contagious bacteria primarily affecting the lungs, spreads through the air. Although most tuberculosis infections are asymptomatic and non-contagious, active tuberculosis—characterized by coughing, fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss—can be highly infectious and deadly if left untreated.
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Lisa Montgomery, Tuberculosis Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Montgomery. It’s great to have you with us today to discuss some alarming new findings about tuberculosis. Let’s dive right in. With the recent World Health Organization report revealing that tuberculosis has reclaimed its position as the deadliest infectious disease, what do you think are the main factors contributing to this resurgence?
Dr. Montgomery: Thank you for having me! The resurgence of tuberculosis (TB) is a complex issue, but several factors play a significant role. First and foremost, we’re seeing a global health system that has been heavily focused on COVID-19, which diverted attention and resources away from TB prevention and treatment efforts. Additionally, socioeconomic disparities, access to healthcare, and the stigma surrounding TB continue to hinder effective responses in many communities.
Time.news Editor: That’s an important point. The report mentioned a staggering 10.8 million people diagnosed with TB last year, as well as 1.25 million fatalities. How does this mortality rate compare to other infectious diseases, and what can we do to change this trend?
Dr. Montgomery: TB has always been a silent killer, but the scale of its impact is still shocking. While COVID-19 has claimed many lives, the fact that TB continues to surpass those numbers is concerning. Unlike COVID-19, we have existing tools to combat TB—such as vaccines, antimicrobial treatments, and diagnostic tests. We must prioritize and invest in these tools, enhance awareness, and bolster efforts toward preventive strategies. Education is key here; people need to understand that TB is treatable and curable.
Time.news Editor: Dr. Tedros from the WHO called the death rate from TB “appalling,” especially given that we have the means to combat it. Why do you think there’s still such a significant gap in addressing TB compared to other diseases like COVID-19?
Dr. Montgomery: That’s a critical question. TB has long been a neglected disease, often associated with poverty and stigma, which can make it less visible compared to more prevalent issues like COVID-19. The pandemic led to unprecedented global collaboration and funding, but similar urgency hasn’t been directed towards TB. We need to mobilize that same commitment to ensure that TB is brought back into public focus, with adequate funding and resources allocated for research, treatment, and prevention.
Time.news Editor: Clearly, awareness is crucial. In your view, what role does public health education play in reducing the rates of tuberculosis?
Dr. Montgomery: Public health education is vital. Many people are simply unaware of the symptoms, which can include a persistent cough, weight loss, and night sweats. If they don’t recognize these symptoms early on, they may delay seeking treatment, which only exacerbates the spread of the disease. We need to empower communities with knowledge and foster supportive environments where individuals feel safe and encouraged to seek help without the fear of stigma.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a multi-faceted approach is necessary. As we look ahead, what do you hope to see in the next few years in terms of progress against tuberculosis?
Dr. Montgomery: I hope to see increased global commitment to TB elimination efforts. This includes expanded funding for research, improved global collaboration, and robust public health campaigns. Ultimately, I want to see TB recognized not just as a health issue, but as a social justice issue that requires comprehensive action across sectors. If we tackle the systemic issues that contribute to TB prevalence—such as healthcare access, poverty, and education—we can make significant strides in turning the tide against this disease.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Montgomery, for sharing your insights and expertise with us today. It’s crucial that we continue to have these conversations to raise awareness about tuberculosis and advocate for action.
Dr. Montgomery: Thank you for shining a light on this important issue. Every conversation helps to create a pathway to change.