TB Remains The World’s Deadliest Infectious Disease- WHO

Global Tuberculosis Deaths Remain Alarmingly High Despite Progress

Despite global efforts, tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of death worldwide, claiming an estimated 1.25 million lives in 2023, according to recent data.

2.  While progress has been made in saving millions of lives, the persistent threat underscores the urgent need for intensified action to combat the disease.

TB, caused by bacteria that primarily affect the lungs, spreads through airborne transmission when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or spit.

An estimated quarter of the world’s population carries the TB bacteria, though most will not develop active disease.

The WHO highlighted that 79 million lives have been saved through global TB control efforts since 2000. However, the current rate of progress is insufficient to meet the 2030 targets set by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.