Global aid cuts are severely hindering the ongoing battle against tuberculosis (TB), the world’s deadliest infectious disease, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Health officials are raising alarms over the “crippling breakdowns” in efforts to combat TB as aid funding is slashed, particularly in countries across Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific.
The WHO warns that these abrupt cuts jeopardize vital progress made over the past two decades in fighting TB, and could lead to a global resurgence of the disease. TB, primarily affecting the lungs, kills approximately 1.25 million people annually. Without consistent treatment, the disease can become drug-resistant, making it harder to cure.
Aid cuts have already impacted 27 countries, including shortages of medical personnel and disrupted diagnostic programs. Nine countries are struggling to obtain essential TB medications, which patients must take for four to six months for effective treatment. Interruptions in treatment can lead to drug resistance, further complicating efforts to control the disease.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General, stated, “The huge gains the world has made against TB over the past 20 years are now at risk.” These funding reductions, particularly from major donors, threaten global TB control and treatment efforts, making it more challenging to prevent the spread of drug-resistant TB strains.
The WHO’s urgent call highlights the need for continued support to combat TB and prevent further setbacks in global health efforts.
