The World Health Organization (WHO) disclosed that 424,000 people died from Tuberculosis in 2022.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, who made the disclosure in her speech to mark 2024 World Tuberculosis Day, said the loss was preventable as the disease was not only preventable but also treatable.
According to her, the figures underscore the urgency of our collective action in addressing the ongoing TB epidemic and highlight the need for sustained efforts to end it.
She said, “Since then, a 20% increase has been recorded in identified paediatric TB cases compared to the previous year. This signifies a positive step, indicating a more practical approach to recognizing TB in children and a decisive push to end this ancient disease.
“Today, we reflect on our progress while recognizing the challenges in our efforts to eliminate it as a public health threat.
“TB continues to be the second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, surpassing the toll of HIV/AIDS. According to the latest report, about 2.5 million individuals will contract TB in 2022 in the region, equating to one person every 13 seconds.”
Moeti said the UN Agency has been able to diagnose 70% of TB patients, marking a substantial reduction in missed cases and propelling us closer to our goal.
This achievement, she said, is a testament to the relentless efforts of our Member States and partners, showcasing what can be accomplished through a shared vision and concerted action.
“Between 2015 and 2022, our region achieved a remarkable 38% reduction in TB deaths, surpassing the initial End TB Strategy milestone of 35% by 2020. From 2015 to 2022, the region also saw a 23% reduction in new TB cases, exceeding the initial End TB Strategy target of 20% by 2020. All this underscores the effectiveness of implemented strategies and renewed commitment from countries.
“However, while the reduction in TB deaths is commendable, it still falls short of the 2025 End TB Strategy target of a 75% reduction. Similarly, the 23% decline in TB incidence mises the mark of the 50% reduction target for 2025. This highlights the need for continued and intensified efforts to meet these ambitious goals.
“Challenges such as delayed diagnosis, limited access to new tools and technologies, and the ongoing threat of multi-drug resistant TB require continued vigilance and sustained efforts,” she said.
The WHO Regional Director urged stakeholders to “join us by providing resources, enhancing community engagement, conducting research, and forming private-sector partnerships. Through this unified action, we can address the challenges of TB in Africa and achieve our goal of its elimination as a public health threat.
“I urge all our Member States to prioritize a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of the disease while bolstering our efforts in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
“I urge health leaders to intensify their commitment to strengthening health systems, ensuring equitable access to TB care, and scaling up innovative interventions,” she added.
