The WHO reports a concerning 10% increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases among children under 15 in Europe and Central Asia, with 7,500 cases recorded in 2023. More than 2,400 of these cases affected children under 5, who face higher risks of serious illness or death.

Across the European Region, over 172,000 new or relapsed TB cases were reported in 2023, matching 2022 levels. Treatment success rates remain at 75%, well below the 90% global target. For multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB), success rates are even lower at 60%.

Major challenges include:

• Delays in diagnosis
• Need for more effective treatments
• Insufficient access to current treatments
• Reduced international funding

Key reasons for increasing TB cases:

• Disruption of medical services due to conflicts
• COVID-related healthcare avoidance
• Reduced financial support
• Incomplete treatment adherence
• Insufficient testing
• Increased refugee movements

Tuberculosis remains the world's leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, with 11 million cases and 1.2 million deaths globally in 2023. The U.S. reported over 10,000 cases in 2024, marking the fourth consecutive annual increase.

Common TB symptoms:

• Persistent cough (3+ weeks)
• Blood or phlegm in cough
• Chest pain
• Unexplained fatigue
• Night sweats
• Loss of appetite/weight

Diagnosis involves skin or blood tests, followed by chest X-rays when positive. Treatment requires a 6-9 month medication regimen. Incomplete treatment can lead to drug-resistant strains and disease recurrence.

TB can remain dormant for years and cause permanent lung damage, particularly threatening immunocompromised individuals. Even after treatment, the bacteria remain in the body, controlled by the immune system but capable of reactivation.

Experts emphasize that with proper resources, accurate diagnostics, and effective treatments, TB could be significantly reduced globally.

Related Articles

Previous Articles