World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, observed annually on March 24th, serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against this infectious disease and the need for global collaboration to eradicate it. The disease remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, claiming millions of lives each year. Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, TB primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, making it highly contagious.
Commemorating the day, GRACARO launched a health talk at CBC radio in Bamenda to raise awareness and educate the public about the disease and ways in which we can end its spread.
This year’s theme is: Yes, we can End TB and ending the epidemic involves a concerted action by all sectors to provide the right services, support an enabling safe environment in the right place, and at the right time. Poverty, inequality, undernutrition, discrimination, and stigma are major drivers of the TB epidermic.
It is a day to educate the public about the impact of TB around the world. The main purpose of World TB Day is to raise awareness about the disease and to educate people about the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. It is also an opportunity to show support for those affected by TB and to emphasize the need for continued research and efforts to control its spread.
Despite significant advancements in healthcare, TB continue to pose a major health challenge. In 2020 alone, an estimated 10 million people fell ill with TB, and 1.4 million lost their lives to this preventable and curable disease. Furthermore, TB disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including those living in poverty, marginalized communities, and individuals with compromised immune systems, such as people living with HIV/AIDS.
To combat the global TB epidermic, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the End TB strategy, aiming to reduce TB deaths by 95% and new cases by 90% by the year 2035. The strategy focuses on three pillars: integrated patient-centered care and prevention, bold policies and supportive systems, and intensified research and innovation.
The day serves as a call to action, urging governments, healthcare professionals, researchers, civil society organizations and individuals to unite in the fight against TB. Collaboration is vital to raising awareness, improving access to healthcare services, and ensuring the availability of quality diagnostics, medicines, and treatment for all those affected by TB.
World Tuberculosis Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in the fight against TB, as well as the challenges that lie ahead. By raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and investing in research and innovation, we can work together to end the global TB epidermic. Let us join hands and commit to a world free from the burden of tuberculosis, where every individual has access to quality care and a chance for a healthier future.