Introduction to Tuberculosis and its Recent Status
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighted that new tuberculosis cases have decreased for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he expressed concern as tuberculosis caused over 1.23 million deaths in 2024, which he deemed “unacceptable for a preventable and curable disease.”
Key Findings from the Global Tuberculosis Report
During an online press briefing, Adhanom discussed the main results from the WHO’s World Tuberculosis Report released on Wednesday. The report states that 10.7 million infections were reported last year, marking a slight one percent decrease from 10.8 million cases in 2023. Despite this decline, the number of affected individuals remains above pre-pandemic levels, as 10.3 million cases were recorded in 2020.
Deaths and Demographic Distribution
The estimated death toll of 1.23 million in 2024 represents the third consecutive annual decrease, following disruptions in care caused by COVID-19. Among these deaths, 1.08 million were among HIV-negative individuals and 150,000 were among those with HIV. This reflects a 42 percent reduction from the 2.13 million deaths in 2010.
Progress and Achievements
The report highlights that in 2024, 8.3 million people were diagnosed and treated for tuberculosis, accounting for about 78 percent of those infected that year. Additionally, the coverage of rapid diagnostic tests increased from 48 percent in 2023 to 54 percent in 2024. Other notable advancements include:
- Highly effective treatment for drug-sensitive tuberculosis with an 88 percent success rate
- Continued decline in cases of drug-resistant tuberculosis, estimated at 390,000 in 2024
- A rise in treatment success rate to 71 percent for drug-resistant tuberculosis
- 5.3 million high-risk individuals receiving preventive treatment, up from 4.7 million in 2023
Promising Developments and Regional Progress
Adhanom mentioned that the number of people undergoing tests and receiving treatment is increasing, with advancements in research. There are now at least 18 vaccine candidates in clinical development, including six in phase III trials. Some WHO regions have shown significant progress:
- Africa: Incidence rate decreased by 28 percent and deaths by 46 percent from 2015 to 2024
- Europe: Incidence and death rates dropped by 39 percent
Insufficient Progress Towards 2030 Goals
Despite these achievements, the report concludes that progress in reducing the disease burden remains “far below” the 2030 targets set by most countries. WHO member states, along with the United Nations, pledged to end tuberculosis by 2030 with a 90 percent reduction in deaths and an 80 percent decrease in incidence compared to 2015 levels.
Threat of Funding Cuts
Adhanom warned that funding cuts in international aid for many low- and middle-income countries could reverse the current progress. He specifically mentioned potential reductions announced by then U.S. President Donald Trump.
Projected Impact of Funding Reductions
The report predicts that without restored U.S. assistance, there could be two million additional deaths and ten million more cases between 2025 and 2030.
Call for Increased Support
The WHO has urged all countries to continue efforts against tuberculosis, calling for increased national and international funding. Adhanom emphasized the importance of this support, stating that more than 100 countries successfully reduced tuberculosis incidence by at least 20 percent, while over 65 countries decreased tuberculosis mortality by 35 percent. This demonstrates that ending tuberculosis is achievable with proper support.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What recent development has been noted in tuberculosis cases? A: New tuberculosis cases have dropped for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Q: How many deaths were reported due to tuberculosis in 2024? A: Over 1.23 million deaths were reported in 2024.
- Q: What percentage decrease in tuberculosis deaths has been observed since 2010? A: There has been a 42 percent reduction in tuberculosis deaths since 2010.
- Q: What are the projected consequences of reduced U.S. funding for tuberculosis control? A: Without restored U.S. assistance, there could be two million additional deaths and ten million more cases between 2025 and 2030.
- Q: How can countries contribute to further tuberculosis control efforts? A: Countries can increase national resource allocation and international funding for tuberculosis control programs.
