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

DR BALAMURUGAN

Welcome, everyone, to this special podcast on World TB Day 2025! I’m Dr. Balamurugan, your host, and today we’re joined by Dr. Sangamithra, a renowned pulmonologist. Together, we’ll explore the global impact of tuberculosis, its symptoms, treatment, and the challenges we face. But most importantly, we’ll discover how we can all play a role in ending this deadly disease by 2030. So, buckle up and join us on this journey to make TB a disease of the past!

DR SANGAMITHRA

Hi Dr. Balamurugan, I’m thrilled to be here! World TB Day is such an important occasion. It’s amazing to think that over 10 million people still fall ill with TB each year, and 1.3 million lose their lives. It’s a stark reminder of the work we still have to do. But the theme this year, 'Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver', is so inspiring. It really gives us hope. So, where do we start? Maybe with the global burden of TB?

DR BALAMURUGAN

Absolutely, let’s start there. TB is a global health crisis that continues to affect millions of people, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In 2023, nearly 10.6 million people fell ill with TB, and 1.3 million lost their lives. TB is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide. Over 500,000 cases of drug-resistant TB (DR-TB) emerge annually, making treatment more complex. Despite the progress we’ve made, with global efforts saving over 75 million lives since 2000, urgent action is still needed to meet the WHO’s End TB Strategy goals by 2030. The numbers are staggering, but they also highlight the importance of our work.

DR SANGAMITHRA

Those numbers are indeed staggering. And it’s not just about the sheer volume of cases; it’s also about who is most affected. TB is most prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, and people with HIV, diabetes, or malnutrition are more vulnerable. Children and the elderly are at higher risk due to weaker immunity. It’s a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach. Can you explain more about what TB is and how it spreads?

DR BALAMURUGAN

Certainly. TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can spread to the brain, spine, kidneys, and other organs. The disease can be latent, meaning the bacteria are present but inactive and not causing symptoms, or it can be active, where the bacteria are multiplying and causing symptoms. Active TB is highly contagious because the bacteria can stay in the air for hours, making it easier to spread. Unlike the common cold, TB is a serious disease that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe complications and save lives.

DR SANGAMITHRA

That’s a great explanation. So, what are the common symptoms of active TB, and how is it diagnosed? I think understanding the symptoms and diagnosis methods is crucial for early intervention.

DR BALAMURUGAN

Indeed. The common symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood, chest pain, difficulty breathing, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fever. These symptoms can often be mistaken for other diseases, which is why early diagnosis is crucial. There are several methods to diagnose TB. The Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) and Blood Tests detect latent TB, while the Sputum Test confirms active TB. Chest X-rays and CT scans help identify lung involvement, and the GeneXpert Test can quickly detect drug-resistant TB. Early diagnosis is key to preventing transmission and complications.

DR SANGAMITHRA

Those diagnostic methods sound comprehensive. But what about the treatment and the challenges we face? I know TB is curable, but there are several hurdles to overcome. Can you elaborate on that?

DR BALAMURUGAN

Absolutely. TB is curable with a strict 6-month antibiotic regimen, typically consisting of Isoniazid (INH), Rifampicin (RIF), Pyrazinamide (PZA), and Ethambutol (EMB) in the first two months, followed by Isoniazid and Rifampicin for the next four months. However, there are significant challenges. Drug resistance is a major issue because many patients don’t complete their medication, leading to Multidrug-Resistant TB (MDR-TB), which requires longer and more toxic treatments. Social stigma is also a barrier, as many people hide their diagnosis out of fear. High costs of treatment in many countries and lack of awareness are additional hurdles. To combat these, Directly Observed Treatment Short-Course (DOTS) ensures patients complete their medication under supervision.

DR SANGAMITHRA

Those challenges are indeed significant. But the theme of World TB Day 2025, 'Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver', is a call to action for everyone. Can you explain what each of these elements—commit, invest, and deliver—means in the context of ending TB?

DR BALAMURUGAN

Absolutely. 'Commit' means strengthening policies and healthcare systems to ensure they are robust and effective. This includes improving access to healthcare, training healthcare professionals, and implementing comprehensive TB control programs. 'Invest' means increasing global funding for TB research, vaccines, and treatments. This is crucial for developing new tools and strategies to combat the disease. 'Deliver' means ensuring that everyone, especially high-risk populations, gets timely diagnosis and care. This involves expanding access to diagnostic services, treatment, and support for patients. By committing, investing, and delivering, we can make significant progress in the fight against TB.

DR SANGAMITHRA

That’s a clear and compelling call to action. But what can individuals do to help end TB? I think it’s important for our listeners to know how they can contribute to this global effort.

DR BALAMURUGAN

Absolutely. Every individual has a role to play. First, if you have symptoms or belong to a high-risk group, get tested. Vaccinate children with the BCG vaccine. Practice good cough hygiene by covering your mouth while sneezing or coughing. Support TB awareness programs and donate to organizations fighting TB. Spread awareness on social media using #EndTB. By taking these steps, we can all contribute to making TB a disease of the past.

DR SANGAMITHRA

Those are fantastic ways for individuals to make a difference. As we wrap up, do you have any final thoughts or messages to share with our listeners?

DR BALAMURUGAN

Thank you for joining us today on this special World TB Day podcast. TB remains a global challenge, but with commitment, investment, and action, we CAN end TB. Let’s unite to spread awareness, push for early diagnosis, and ensure access to life-saving treatment for all. Remember, TB is preventable, TB is curable, and together, we can END TB! Thank you, and stay safe.