World TB Day 2025: Yes! We Can End TB!

Dr. Balamurugan

Welcome to this special podcast on World TB Day 2025. I'm Dr. Balamurugan, and I’m excited to have with us Dr. Sangamithra, a renowned pulmonologist. Today, we’re diving into the critical topic of tuberculosis—a disease that continues to affect millions globally.

Dr. Sangamithra

Thank you, Dr. Balamurugan. It’s a pleasure to be here. Tuberculosis is indeed a pressing issue, and I’m eager to discuss how we can collectively work towards ending it by 2030.

Dr. Balamurugan

Absolutely, Dr. Sangamithra. Let’s start with the global burden of TB. Despite being preventable and curable, TB remains one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide. In 2023 alone, nearly 10.6 million people fell ill with TB, and 1.3 million lost their lives.

Dr. Sangamithra

Those numbers are staggering. And it’s not just the numbers; it’s the impact on communities, especially in low- and middle-income countries. People with HIV, diabetes, or malnutrition are particularly vulnerable. What can be done to address this, Dr. Balamurugan?

Dr. Balamurugan

Great question. We need to strengthen healthcare systems, increase funding for TB research, and ensure that everyone, especially high-risk populations, gets timely diagnosis and care. Early detection is crucial.

Dr. Sangamithra

Speaking of diagnosis, let’s talk about the symptoms and diagnostic methods. Many people are unaware of the common symptoms of active TB, like a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood, chest pain, and unexplained weight loss.

Dr. Balamurugan

Exactly. And it’s important to note that TB can be latent or active. Latent TB shows no symptoms and isn’t contagious, but active TB can spread to others. Diagnostic methods like the Tuberculin Skin Test, blood tests, and sputum tests are essential for early detection.

Dr. Sangamithra

And once diagnosed, what does treatment look like? I know there are challenges, especially with drug-resistant TB.

Dr. Balamurugan

Yes, treatment involves a strict 6-month antibiotic regimen. However, drug resistance is a significant issue. Many patients don’t complete their medication, leading to Multidrug-Resistant TB, which requires longer and more toxic treatments. Directly Observed Treatment Short-Course (DOTS) helps ensure patients complete their medication under supervision.

Dr. Sangamithra

That’s a critical point. Social stigma and high costs also hinder treatment. This year’s theme, 'Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,' emphasizes the need for collective action. How can individuals contribute?

Dr. Balamurugan

Individuals can play a significant role by getting tested if they have symptoms or belong to a high-risk group, vaccinating children with the BCG vaccine, practicing cough hygiene, supporting TB awareness programs, and spreading awareness on social media using #EndTB.

Dr. Sangamithra

Together, we CAN eliminate TB. Thank you, Dr. Balamurugan, for this insightful discussion. Let’s unite to spread awareness, push for early diagnosis, and ensure access to life-saving treatment for all.

Dr. Balamurugan

Thank you, Dr. Sangamithra, and thank you to our listeners. Remember, TB is preventable, TB is curable, and together, we can END TB!