T uberculosis (TB) is a major threat to people’s health conditions similar to two others, malaria and HIV, claiming millions of lives annually and expediting concerted efforts to eliminate such an epidemic. Although health professionals have been striving to control TB for hundreds of years, ultimately, the TB virus continues to exact a devastating toll, evading complete eradication.
Efforts to eliminate infection of TB across the world have achieved slight success, although medical experts invest their valuable lifespans in doing research and treatment to cure TB patients in any way. However, TB remains a formidable adversary, its lethal impact sparing no corner of the globe.
Whatever it may be, global governments assist in combating the disease under strategic plans. Public awareness campaigns played a crucial role in sharing knowledge about the dangers of TB and promoting practices to mitigate its spread. These efforts have contributed to a gradual decline in the infection rate worldwide.
In fact, authorities need to emphasize public awareness to prevent the TB virus from spreading. In this regard, it is necessary to initiate the first step of TB control at the basic education schools where most of the children gather. By raising awareness of the health, social, and economic consequences of TB, the day aims to galvanize global action to end the epidemic once and for all.
Additionally, preventive treatment for TB among individuals living with HIV surpassed global targets, and countries increasingly embraced WHO recommendations, leading to improved outcomes. Practically, volunteers and medical surgeons join hands with the government in Myanmar to combat TB threats in society. Private clinics have been actively participating in TB preventive measures for many years, focusing on the interests of the patients.
In Myanmar, GeneEpert has 100 machines installed at 86 TB control units to conduct rapid diagnostic tests on TB patients. Meanwhile, BPaLM/BPaL therapies are being used to treat TB-resistant patients. In 2023, 93 per cent of TB patients were examined where they had HIV. Among 7,936 patients with HIV were provided with ART medicine.
However, the fight against TB requires a collective effort from all nations. World TB Day 2024, we themed ‘Yes! We can end TB!’, seeks to inspire hope and mobilize high-level leadership, increase investments, and accelerate action to combat the epidemic. Through innovation, collaboration, and sustained commitment, the global community can strive towards a TB-free future.
