KATHMANDU; World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is being observed today with various awareness programs across Nepal and worldwide. Marked annually on March 24, the day aims to highlight the urgency of ending tuberculosis, which continues to affect millions globally, causing severe health, social, and economic consequences.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” emphasizes the need for stronger commitment at local, national, and international levels.
It also underscores the importance of investing in TB programs and delivering effective interventions, especially as declining international funding threatens efforts to achieve global targets to eliminate TB by 2030.
TB is a contagious airborne disease primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which most often affects the lungs.
The infection spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits. WHO warns that inhaling just a few bacteria can lead to infection.
To mark the occasion, the National TB Control Center is conducting various public awareness programs. Despite ongoing efforts, tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge in Nepal.
In 2023, an estimated 68,000 new TB cases were reported in the country, with an incidence rate of 229 per 100,000 people. The mortality rate stood at 54 per 100,000, according to WHO data.
During the year, the National Tuberculosis Program registered 40,776 TB patients for treatment, of whom 39% were women and 61% were men. Additionally, 756 cases of drug-resistant TB were diagnosed, according to the center’s director, Dr. Shriram Tiwari.
TB continues to impose a heavy financial burden on patients and their families. The National Tuberculosis Patient Data Survey-2024 revealed that 51% of TB patients and their families in Nepal have faced severe financial hardships due to the disease.
Dr. Tiwari emphasized that progress in eliminating TB has been slow due to insufficient collaboration across various sectors. While the health sector plays a crucial role, contributions from education, labor and employment, social security, and the private sector are equally essential to effectively combat the disease.
Nepal has expanded access to TB treatment and diagnosis. Free TB treatment services are available at 6,241 health institutions, while 800 health facilities provide diagnostic services.
Additionally, rapid testing services have been introduced in 117 health institutions across 67 districts.
Dr. Tiwari reiterated Nepal’s commitment to ending TB, stating that the country is working towards the goal of eliminating the TB epidemic by 2030 and achieving a TB-free Nepal by 2050.
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