World TB Day is celebrated every year on 24 March, the aim of which is to spread awareness about TB (Tuberculosis) and to promote the fight against it. This day reminds us of the day when Dr. Robert Koch discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes TB, in 1882.
What is TB?
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. It can spread from one person to another through air. If TB is not treated on time, it can be fatal. This disease is more common in developing countries where there is a lack of health services and awareness.
Types of TB
Pulmonary TB: It affects the lungs and causes cough, bloody phlegm, and difficulty in breathing.
Extrapulmonary TB: When TB bacteria affects other organs of the body other than the lungs such as the bones, kidneys, brain, or lymph nodes.
Latent TB: In this, the bacteria is present in the body but remains inactive. It is not contagious.
Active TB: This is the severe form of TB in which the bacteria becomes active and symptoms appear.
Symptoms of TB
- Continuous cough (3 weeks or more)
- Sweating at night
- Fever and fatigue
- Continuous loss of saliva
- Lack of appetite
- Blood in cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain in the throat
Causes and infection of TB
- Bacteria infection: TB is a bacterial infection that spreads through air. When a TB patient coughs, shudders or speaks, the bacteria spreads in the air.
- Sanjukta Zindagi: Living in a crowded area where ventilation is poor increases the risk of getting TB.
- Weak Immunity: Due to HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or malnutrition, immunity becomes weak and the risk of TB increases.
- Dhumrapan and Alcohol: Excessive consumption of smoking and alcohol weakens the immune system.
Diagnosis and Treatment of TB
- Sputum Test: A cough sample is tested to detect TB bacteria.
- X-ray: TB is diagnosed by X-ray of lungs.
- Blood Test and Skin Test: Mantoux test or Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) is done to detect TB bacteria.
Treatment of TB
TB treatment lasts for 6 to 9 months in which antibiotics are given. Some main medicines are:
- Isoniazid (INH)
- Rifampicin (RIF)
- Ethambutol (EMB)
- Pyrazinamide (PZA)
For complete treatment of TB, it is necessary to complete the entire course on the advice of the doctor.
Measures to prevent TB
- BCG Vaccine: BCG vaccine should be given in childhood, which protects against TB.
- Healthy living style: Take a nutritious diet and keep your immunity strong.
- Maintain hygiene: Cover your mouth during cough and itching.
- Better ventilation: Keep your home and room ventilated.
- Screening and awareness: Keep an eye on the symptoms of TB and take medical advice on time.
Theme of World TB Day 2025
Every year there is a new theme for World TB Day which takes the fight against TB forward. The theme for 2025 reflects global commitment and awareness against TB. The aim of this theme is to eradicate TB and provide a safe and healthy life to all people.
Global efforts against TB
- WHO (World Health Organization): WHO has launched the End TB Strategy which aims to reduce TB cases by 90% by 2030.
- DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course): This is an effective treatment approach in which healthcare workers monitor the treatment of the patient.
- Global Fund & Partnerships: Different NGOs and governments are working together to eradicate TB.
Conclusion
World TB Day is an opportunity to spread awareness about TB. We should understand that TB is a curable disease and can be overcome with timely diagnosis and correct treatment. Come, on this World TB Day, let’s pledge to fight against TB and create a healthy society.