The
World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recent report on tuberculosis (TB) sheds
light on India’s significant progress in addressing its TB burden. Over the
past eight years, the country has reduced undiagnosed cases, achieving
treatment coverage for over 85% of those suspected to have TB in 2023. This
success is vital, as TB remains deadly—more than 50% of undiagnosed cases are
fatal. India’s effective interventions, like shortened treatment regimens, have
also helped manage multi-drug resistant TB. WHO data shows India reduced TB
incidence by 18% over eight years, more than double the global average decline.
However, the pace remains insufficient to meet the ambitious goal of TB
eradication by 2025.
India’s
battle with TB, despite this progress, faces persistent challenges that
threaten the likelihood of total elimination. Malnutrition remains a formidable
barrier, with poor diet contributing to 35-45% of new cases annually.
Undernourished individuals lack the immune strength to resist the infection,
and TB patients facing malnutrition have higher mortality risks. The government
has implemented a nutritional support scheme for TB patients, which has
expanded coverage significantly, yet funding remains inadequate to meet the
full needs of impoverished patients. Alarmingly, over one-fifth of TB-infected
individuals still do not receive this nutritional support.
Compounding
this issue is the disparity in healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural
and underserved regions, where access to diagnostics and quality treatment
remains limited. Awareness about TB symptoms and treatment protocols also lags,
particularly in remote areas. Many cases go undetected until the infection is
advanced, further complicating containment efforts. Health workers, already
strained, struggle to provide the sustained follow-up essential for successful
TB treatment and prevention.
Adding
to these barriers is the social stigma surrounding TB. Misconceptions lead to
isolation, discrimination, and fear, which deter patients from seeking early
treatment and adhering to rigorous medication schedules. This stigma undermines
public health efforts and worsens the cycle of disease and poverty. To overcome
these challenges, India must intensify awareness campaigns, particularly in
rural areas, and strengthen partnerships with NGOs that work closely with
affected communities.
While
India’s TB control achievements are commendable, they highlight the complexity
of tackling the disease. A comprehensive strategy addressing socio-economic,
nutritional, and infrastructure gaps is crucial for a sustainable victory. The
government needs to amplify its nutrition support program, invest more in
healthcare infrastructure, and strengthen awareness and engagement efforts.
Without a multi-faceted approach, the goal of TB eradication by 2025 will
remain out of reach.
The
WHO report emphasizes that while strides have been made, India’s journey to a
TB-free future requires a deeper, all-encompassing commitment.
