Tuberculosis (TB) has emerged as the world’s second deadliest infectious disease, following COVID-19. The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted TB prevention and treatment efforts, leading to an estimated half a million excess deaths between 2020 and 2022. While there has been some recovery in TB diagnosis and treatment post-pandemic, the disease remains a significant concern, particularly in Asia and the Pacific.

The Expense of Tuberculosis in the Asia-Pacific Region

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Southeast Asia will account for 46% of all cases of tuberculosis worldwide in 2022, placing Asia and the Pacific at the forefront of the global TB epidemic. This region’s developing nations still struggle with high rates of tuberculosis. The Basic Statistics series from the Asian Development Bank indicates that over 300 cases are reported for every 100,000 people in many countries. Some of the highest TB rates are found in the Philippines, Indonesia, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, and Viet Nam; in the Philippines alone, there have been about 700,000 active cases reported.

Poverty and overcrowding are significant drivers of TB in these regions. In the Philippines, nearly 10 million people live in impoverished urban areas where inadequate living conditions exacerbate the spread of the disease. Poorly-resourced public health services further contribute to the high incidence of TB.

Efforts to Combat Tuberculosis

Despite the challenges, several initiatives have been implemented to address the TB crisis in the Philippines. Increased screening efforts in vulnerable communities aim to detect and treat TB cases more effectively. One notable advancement is the partnership between the Philippine Department of Health and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, which introduced AI-assisted X-ray detection. This technology significantly accelerates the diagnosis process compared to traditional skin or blood tests.

Moreover, there is a concerted effort to raise awareness about TB and reduce the social stigma associated with seeking diagnosis and treatment. Addressing stigma is crucial for encouraging individuals to get tested and receive necessary treatment, which can ultimately reduce transmission rates.

Focusing on High-Risk Populations

Medical practitioners in the Philippines have emphasized that interventions must target the populations most affected by TB. The disease predominantly affects those living in overcrowded conditions, such as urban slums and overcrowded prisons. Low-income individuals with limited access to education and healthcare, as well as young people living with HIV who lack access to antiretroviral treatment, are particularly vulnerable.

Key Takeaways

Global efforts to combat tuberculosis have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, but there is still hope due to ongoing initiatives and advancements. In the fight against tuberculosis, it will be imperative to maintain focus on improving living conditions, utilising new technologies, and addressing social factors. We can work towards a time when tuberculosis doesn’t represent a serious threat to world health with perseverance and cooperation.