Every year on March 24, the world unites to observe World Tuberculosis Day, raising awareness about tuberculosis (TB) and strengthening global efforts to eliminate this preventable and curable disease.

Despite medical advancements, tuberculosis remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases. According to the World Health Organization, TB causes over 1.5 million deaths annually.

India continues to carry one of the highest TB burdens globally. Several factors contribute to its persistence:

• High population density and crowded living conditions

• Limited access to timely healthcare services

• Malnutrition and weakened immunity

• Emergence of drug-resistant TB strains

TB not only affects health but also impacts families socially and economically due to prolonged illness and treatment duration.

Types of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis primarily affects the lungs but can involve other organs as well.

1️⃣ Pulmonary TB

The most common form, affecting the lungs. It spreads through airborne droplets and causes symptoms like persistent cough and fever.

2️⃣ Extrapulmonary TB

Occurs when TB bacteria spread to other organs such as:

• Lymph nodes

• Bones and spine

• Brain

• Kidneys

• Reproductive organs

Symptoms vary depending on the organ involved.

How Does Tuberculosis Spread?

TB spreads through the air. When a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, laughs, or speaks, tiny droplets containing bacteria are released into the air. Others may inhale these droplets and become infected.

However, not everyone infected develops active disease. Many people develop latent TB infection, where bacteria remain dormant without causing symptoms. Latent TB is not contagious but can become active if immunity weakens.

Risk Factors for Tuberculosis

Certain conditions increase the likelihood of developing active TB:

• Living in overcrowded or poorly ventilated areas

• HIV/AIDS infection

• Diabetes

• Malnutrition

• Smoking or substance abuse

• Young children and elderly individuals

• Previous incomplete TB treatment

Individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable.

Early Warning Signs and Symptoms

Early detection plays a crucial role in preventing complications and transmission. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough lasting more than 2–3 weeks

• Blood in sputum

• Low-grade fever

• Night sweats

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue and weakness

• Loss of appetite

If these symptoms persist, medical evaluation is essential.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Early diagnosis helps:

• Prevent spread to others

• Reduce risk of severe complications

• Improve treatment success

• Lower mortality

Prompt medical intervention significantly improves outcomes.

Diagnostic Tests for TB

Healthcare providers may recommend:

• Chest X-ray – Detects lung abnormalities

• Sputum test – Identifies TB bacteria

• Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) – Detects TB exposure

• Molecular diagnostic tests – Identify drug resistance

Often, multiple tests are used together for accurate diagnosis.

Treatment and Management of Tuberculosis

Standard Treatment

TB is treated with Anti-Tubercular Therapy (ATT), usually lasting 6–9 months. Completing the full course is critical to eliminate bacteria completely.

Symptoms often improve within weeks, but stopping medication early can lead to relapse or drug resistance.

Drug-Resistant TB: A Growing Concern

Some strains of TB bacteria have become resistant to standard medications. Drug-resistant TB requires:

• Longer treatment (up to 18–24 months)

• Stronger medications

• Close monitoring

This highlights the importance of treatment adherence.

Importance of Treatment Adherence

Missing doses or stopping treatment prematurely can:

• Cause treatment failure

• Increase risk of recurrence

• Promote drug-resistant TB

Strict adherence ensures successful recovery.

Prevention Strategies: Breaking the Chain of Transmission

Preventing TB spread requires community-level action:

✔ Improve Ventilation

Fresh air circulation reduces airborne bacteria concentration.

✔ Practice Respiratory Hygiene

Cover mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.

✔ Early Detection and Treatment

Identifying cases quickly reduces transmission.

✔ Treat Latent TB Infection

Prevent progression to active disease.

Vaccination

The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is widely administered in countries with high TB burden. While it does not fully prevent infection, it significantly reduces the risk of severe TB forms in children.

Long-Term Effects of Tuberculosis

Even after recovery, some individuals may experience:

• Lung scarring

• Reduced lung function

• Chronic cough

• Organ damage in extrapulmonary TB

Early treatment reduces the risk of permanent complications.

Tuberculosis and Special Conditions

TB and Fertility

Genital TB can cause infertility due to scarring of reproductive organs.

TB and Pregnancy

Untreated TB during pregnancy can lead to:

• Preterm birth

• Low birth weight

• Neonatal infection

With timely treatment, most women can safely complete pregnancy.

Can TB Recur?

Yes, TB can recur if:

• Treatment was incomplete

• The immune system weakens

• Re-exposure occurs

However, proper treatment significantly reduces recurrence risk.

TB Medication Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea

• Liver-related issues

• Skin rashes

• Nerve pain

Most side effects are manageable with medical supervision and timely reporting.

A Collective Effort Towards a TB-Free Future

Ending tuberculosis requires:

• Strong political commitment

• Increased funding

• Community awareness

• Early testing and diagnosis

• Strict treatment adherence

• Social support systems

The 2026 theme, “Yes! We Can End TB,” reminds us that elimination is achievable through collective action. TB is preventable, treatable, and curable — but awareness, early diagnosis, and commitment are essential.

On this World Tuberculosis Day, let us renew our responsibility to spread awareness, support those affected, and work together toward a TB-free world.