Join us in raising awareness this World TB Day on March 24th

The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation estimates that globally in 2019, 25,100 cases of tuberculosis (among HIV-negative individuals) were extensively-drug-resistant-TB (XDR-TB). Tragically, XDR-TB infections resulted in 8500 deaths that year. According to the World Health Organization XDR-TB is a form of TB which is resistant to at least four of the core anti-TB drugs, whereas multidrug-resistant-TB (MDR-TB) does not respond to at least 2 of the most powerful anti-TB drugs.  Every year about half a million people globally will contract drug-resistant TB (DR-TB). Reaching patients remains a significant public health challenge, as figures show only 1 in 3 have access to quality care. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a formidable obstacle to TB care and prevention globally, with patients facing significant economic and social costs.

Our brilliant Honorary Visiting Professor Zeenah, from the University of Basrah, has been leading our Global Burden of Disease research into AMR in Iraq.

Here's a preview from our soon-to-be-published paper:

TB Alliance says, “As we prepare for the United Nations High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance (UNHLM on AMR) later this year, we must continue to raise awareness for TB”. With DR-TB accounting for about 1 in 3 deaths from AMR infections, TB must be part of the conversation when public health leaders gather to discuss AMR.  Prioritising investment in research and development for new tools to combat TB is essential, not only to improve patient outcomes but also for reducing disease transmission and the burden on healthcare services, particularly for DR-TB.

The fight against tuberculosis requires political will, investment, and global collaboration across sectors and borders. Together, #WeCanEndTB. #WorldTBDay

Written by: Rachel Barker

Reviewed & edited by: Celine Tabche & Prof Zeenah Atwan