World Tuberculosis Day 2023: Significance, Theme and all about the deadly disease

World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on March 24th to raise awareness about the disease and encourage timely action to combat the global TB epidemic.

Tuberculosis is a deadly infection caused by a bacterium that primarily affects the lungs and is easily transmitted by small droplets expelled into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Although Johann Schonlein popularised the term “tuberculosis” in 1834, the disease is thought to have existed for more than three million years prior to that.

Over the years, tuberculosis has had various names depending on where it is found. During the anxious green period, it was called "phthisis," "tabes" in ancient Rome, and "schachepheth" in ancient Hebrew. Consumption was another name for tuberculosis in the 1800s, while "scofula" was used in the Medieval Ages to describe TB of the neck and lymph nodes. However, when it affects the lungs, scrofula is a completely distinct illness.

Theme for World Tuberculosis Day 2023:

"Yes! We can end TB!" is the theme for this year, which aims to urge leaders from around the world to act to stop the TB epidemic. The theme emphasizes the importance of increased funding, quick action, multisectoral cooperation, rapid adoption of new WHO guidelines, and innovative adoption to eradicate tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne disease that spreads like a nefarious whisper in the wind when an infected person unleashes a cough, sneeze, or even just speaks. TB is a major public health problem worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and is a leading cause of death from infectious disease. While TB is treatable and curable with antibiotics, the emergence of drug-resistant strains of TB is a growing concern, making it all the more important to raise awareness and take action to combat the disease.

FAQs

Q1. When is World Tuberculosis Day observed?
A: March 24.

Q2. What is the theme of World Tuberculosis Day 2023?
A: Yes! We can end TB.