India’s TB Crisis: 930 Deaths Daily Amidst Air Pollution & Malnutrition

India is grappling with a significant increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases, posing a serious public health challenge. The country bears a heavy burden of this infectious disease, accounting for a substantial portion of global cases.

Alarming Rise in TB Cases and Deaths

According to the WHO Global TB Report 2023, India recorded a staggering 2.8 million new TB cases in 2022. This represents a concerning 13% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the urgent need for intensified efforts to combat the disease. Tragically, an estimated 340,000 Indians lose their lives to TB every year, a grim statistic translating to approximately 930 deaths each day.

Contributing Factors: Air Pollution, Malnutrition, and Stigma

Several factors contribute to India’s escalating TB crisis. Air pollution weakens respiratory health, making individuals more susceptible to TB infection. Malnutrition further compromises the immune system, increasing vulnerability to the disease. Furthermore, the stigma associated with TB often prevents people from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment, exacerbating the situation.