World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed annually on 24 March, marking the discovery of the bacterium that causes TB in 1882. World TB Day has since become a global rallying point to raise awareness of the impacts of TB, as well as challenges and solutions on the journey towards ending TB.

For Results International (Australia), World TB Day is a key moment for our advocacy efforts. World TB Day reminds us of the progress we’ve made and the work still to do in the fight against one of the world’s oldest and deadliest diseases. TB may feel like a problem of the past, but it still devastates millions globally. TB is the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, killing more than 1.25 million people, mostly in low-income and middle-income countries, and infecting more than 10 million with the disease every year.

 

The good news is that TB is preventable, treatable, and curable. 

 

We have the solutions to end TB, all we need is the political will.

Key facts:

• TB disproportionately affects the most vulnerable: Poverty, overcrowding, and lack of access to healthcare drive the spread of TB, disproportionately impacting marginalised communities. Over 80% of TB cases and deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. High-burden countries in our region include: Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.

 

• Funding gaps are hindering progress: US$ 22 billion is needed annually for TB prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care to achieve global targets by 2027, yet current funding falls short of US$ 5 billion per year. 

 

• Collective action is critical: We have the tools to defeat TB, from improved diagnostics to stronger health systems. Global efforts have saved an estimated 75 million lives since 2000, but sustained collaboration and commitment are essential to finish the fight.​