-On World Tuberculosis Day 2024
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the Regional Director for Africa at the World Health Organization (WHO), delivered a powerful message on World Tuberculosis Day, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB) in the region.
The groundwork laid during the 72nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Lomé, Togo, in 2022 has sparked a movement towards prioritizing childhood TB. Ministers of Health from across the region have come together to address the specific needs of children affected by TB, leading to a 20% increase in identified pediatric TB cases compared to the previous year.
While acknowledging this progress, Dr. Moeti emphasized the challenges that persist in the fight against TB. Despite the efforts to raise awareness and improve detection rates, TB remains the second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, surpassing the toll of HIV/AIDS. In 2022, an estimated 2.5 million individuals in the region contracted TB, translating to one new case every 13 seconds. Tragically, there were 424,000 TB-related deaths that year, equating to one life lost every minute.
The statistics highlight the urgent need for collective action to address the TB epidemic and underscore the importance of sustaining efforts to eliminate this ancient disease. The WHO African Region is supporting member states in their TB control efforts by providing strategic guidance, developing monitoring tools such as the African TB scorecard in collaboration with the African Union, and working towards the goals outlined in the End TB Strategy.
Furthermore, the WHO is committed to sharing knowledge on effective TB control methods, updating treatment guidelines, and expanding access to rapid diagnostic tools. Dr. Moeti stressed the significance of regional cooperation, encouraging knowledge exchange and collaborative initiatives among countries to enhance TB prevention and treatment efforts in Africa.
In the WHO African Region, we are celebrating a significant milestone: the diagnosis of 70% of TB patients. This achievement represents a substantial decrease in missed cases and brings us closer to our ultimate goal. It stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of our Member States and partners, demonstrating the power of collective vision and action.
Between 2015 and 2022, our region saw a remarkable 38% reduction in TB-related deaths, surpassing the initial target of 35% set by the End TB Strategy for 2020. Additionally, there was a 23% decrease in new TB cases during the same period, exceeding the strategy’s target of 20% reduction by 2020. These outcomes underscore the effectiveness of our strategies and the renewed commitment of countries involved.
While the progress in reducing TB deaths is laudable, it falls short of the End TB Strategy’s 2025 target of a 75% reduction. Similarly, the 23% decline in TB incidence misses the 50% reduction target set for 2025. This emphasizes the ongoing need for sustained and intensified efforts to reach these ambitious goals.
Persistent challenges, such as delayed diagnosis, limited access to new technologies, and the threat of multi-drug resistant TB, require continuous vigilance and unwavering commitment.
Engagement from stakeholders is crucial. By providing resources, enhancing community involvement, conducting research, and fostering partnerships with the private sector, we can overcome these challenges and work towards eliminating TB as a public health threat in Africa.
“I call upon all Member States to prioritize a comprehensive approach that tackles the underlying causes of TB, while strengthening our efforts in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.”
Health leaders are urged to enhance their commitment to fortifying health systems, ensuring equitable access to TB care, and expanding innovative interventions.
“Investment in research and the development of new tools, including vaccines and improved diagnostics, is essential for accelerating progress in the fight against TB.”
Furthermore, she says countries must prioritize addressing the social determinants of TB, such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to healthcare, to achieve sustainable outcomes. Collaboration across sectors and borders is paramount. “I firmly commit to supporting all our Member States and partners with unwavering determination for a world free of TB.”
