Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that affects the health of millions of people worldwide, but it also poses social challenges. The diagnosis of TB dates back to the Greek physician and philosopher Hippocrates around 370 BCE. It resurfaced in Indian literature about 1500 years later. During the 19th century, TB was considered a major cause of mortality in Europe, where it was often associated with titles like the “captain of death” and the “white plague.”
The advent of TB vaccination occurred in 1921, leading to significant advancements in treatment options and disease control. However, despite a decrease in TB rates from the 1950s to the 1990s, concerns arose with the emergence of drug-resistant strains, particularly with the onset of AIDS, leading to a resurgence of TB cases in certain regions.
TB, also known as consumption or phthisis, is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These bacteria primarily affect the lungs and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible, and TB can lead to significant suffering and mortality if left untreated.
TB manifests in various forms, including pulmonary TB, which affects the lungs; brain TB, affecting the brain; gland TB, affecting glands such as the lymph nodes; bone TB, affecting bones; and intestinal TB, affecting the intestines. Symptoms can include persistent cough, fever, weight loss, chest pain, and coughing up blood.
TB primarily affects marginalized populations, often thriving in overcrowded and poorly ventilated areas with limited access to healthcare. In Pakistan, TB disproportionately affects women, and TB-related mortality rates are higher among men. TB can also coexist with other conditions like HIV/AIDS, exacerbating its impact.
Preventive measures include improving living conditions, ensuring adequate ventilation, and addressing risk factors such as malnutrition, smoking, and HIV/AIDS. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in controlling TB and preventing its spread.
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that spreads through the air when infected people cough, sneeze or spit.Though it commonly affects the lungs, TB can also affect the kidneys, brain, spine, and skin.The global burden of drug-resistant TB is on the rise. We must #EndTB! The theme for World Tuberculosis Day 2024, has been observed on 24th March every year, is “Yes! We Can End TB”. 💉 German 🇩🇪 microbiologist Dr. Robert Koch had discovered the bacterium that causes TB on this day in 1882. 🔬 He received the Nobel Prize in Medicine/Physiology in 1905. 🎖 Tuberculosis, also referred to as TB, is a lung infection causes by a bacterium known as ‘Mycobacterium Tuberculosis’. This bacterium is transmitted through infected droplets in the air which is then inhaled by a person, which causes the