Every year on March 24, the world observes World Tuberculosis (TB) Day to raise awareness about the deadly infectious disease tuberculosis (TB). The day serves as a reminder of the global fight against TB and the efforts needed to eliminate it.
Recently, citing a World Health Organization (WHO) report, sources from India’s Ministry of Health revealed a 17.7% decline in TB cases in the country. The report states that TB incidence in India dropped from 237 cases per 100,000 population in 2015 to 195 cases per 100,000 in 2023. This decline is more than double the global reduction rate of 8.3%, highlighting India’s remarkable progress in controlling TB cases. WHO has also acknowledged India’s significant success in reducing the gap in undetected TB cases since 2015.
Is India on Track to Eliminate TB by 2025?
While the reduction in TB cases is commendable, India’s ambitious goal of becoming TB-free by 2025 still seems challenging. The government has been making significant efforts through awareness campaigns, improved healthcare facilities, and free TB treatment programs, yet completely eradicating the disease remains a distant target.
According to Dr. Neetu Jain, Senior Consultant Pulmonologist at PSRI, TB can be cured with proper medication and timely treatment. She explains that TB is primarily a droplet infection, meaning it spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. TB is highly prevalent in India, and lung TB is particularly contagious. However, TB can affect any organ in the body, making early diagnosis and continuous treatment essential.
How Can You Prevent and Fight TB?
1. Early Diagnosis – Get tested if you experience persistent cough, weight loss, fever, or night sweats.
2. Complete Medication Course – TB treatment requires strict adherence to prescribed medicines for at least six months.
3. Healthy Diet & Immunity Boost – Eating nutritious food strengthens immunity against TB.
4. Hygiene & Awareness – Avoid close contact with infected individuals and follow proper cough etiquette.
The Indian government’s Nikshay Poshan Yojana and National TB Elimination Program (NTEP) have been instrumental in combating TB. However, public participation and awareness are crucial in achieving the TB-free India 2025 vision. While progress has been made, there’s still a long way to go in completely eliminating the disease.
