Tuberculosis

Abstract

Tuberculosis is one of the most common causes of death globally. In richer countries, the impact of tuberculosis has been reduced significantly over history, but in poorer parts of our world, it continues to be a major challenge even today: it causes an estimated 1.2 million deaths annually. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria spreads through respiratory particles and tends to cause tuberculosis in people with risk factors such as undernourishment, HIV/AIDS, smoking, and existing chronic conditions. The disease involves symptoms like coughing, fatigue and night sweats, and can damage the lungs, the brain, kidneys and other organs, which can be fatal. But it is treatable with a combination of specific antibiotics. Without being diagnosed correctly, however, people do not receive the proper treatment. This leaves them vulnerable, and also increases the risk that antibiotic-resistant strains of the bacteria will develop, which are much more difficult and expensive to treat. With greater effort to tackle its risk factors and improve testing and treatment for the disease, the world can relegate tuberculosis to history — not just in the richer parts of the world, but for everyone. On this page, you will find global data and trends on tuberculosis, including testing, treatment, and vaccination.