Why “It’s Time” to Eradicate Tuberculosis? – PSRI

Tuberculosis remains the world’s most deadly epidemic, killing nearly 4500 people every day. March 24^th is observed as World Tuberculosis day, it marks the discovery Mycobacterium tuberculosis, bacteria causing TB which was discovered by Dr. Robert Koch. It was only after the discovery of the bacterium its diagnosis and cures were studied, hence this day is observed globally to spread awareness about the symptoms, causes, treatment, and preventions of Tuberculosis.

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is a serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobaterium tuberculosis which can affect any part of the body but usually attacks the lungs. It spreads through the air, most easily in closed places for over a long time. Not easily detectable, there are two forms, Latent and Clinically Active Tuberculosis.

For latent TB a person is infected with the bacteria but does get sick, which means the body’s immunity does not allow the growth of bacteria. On the other hand, clinically active TB means the person is sick and needs immediate treatment. However, there are chances of latent TB triggering into clinically active TB.

Why Tuberculosis is still a Pandemic?

Weakened Immune System
HIV/AIDS is a global pandemic which constitutes a big factor causing Tuberculosis. Diseases like HIV/AIDS, Diabetes, and Silicosis suppresses the immune system of the body, making the body susceptible to other infectious diseases.

Multi-Drug Resistance
Advancements in treatment have definitely helped in controlling the spread of Tuberculosis comparatively, but the situation is not that simple. The current worry is Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis, which means disease-causing bacteria, has developed strains of resistance to each kind of drug.

Growing Population versus Inadequate resources

Individuals who are malnourished, lack adequate medical care, or who suffer from long term drug or alcohol abuse are at increased risk of developing tuberculosis. Proper resources, limited medical aid allows the diseases to thrive.

 “It’s Time” to end Tuberculosis Together and How?

As per the Global Tuberculosis Report 2018, globally 10.0 million people were reported infected in the year 2017 out of which 9% were people living with HIV, and 27% of infected people were from India. Globally the absolute number of TB deaths among HIV negative people has fallen from by an estimate of 29% since 2000. World Health Organisation has been taking up some serious regulations and programs in combating Tuberculosis, the theme of this year. It’s Time – World Tuberculosis Day clearly justifies the same. Tuberculosis is preventable but multi-drug resistant Tb continues to be a threat, and here’s how we can fight our way out through this pandemic –

Get yourself tested on a regular basis.

Mantoux test: If you are taking immune-suppressing medicines treatment of Latent TB in two separate groups of HIV positive and negative.

WHO is taking rigorous steps to accomplish The End TB Strategy by 2020 which can only be achieved if the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the disease are within the context of progress towards Universal Health Coverage. At PSRI, the Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine department headed by Dr. Gopi Chand Khilnani has been strictly working towards the eradication of Tuberculosis while adhering to WHO rules and regulations.