Tuberculosis is one of the top 10 causes of mortality worldwide. Tuberculosis is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that primarily affects the respiratory system, but it can also affect other systems, such as the gastrointestinal system, musculoskeletal system, nervous system, etc. It may be present as a latent or an active infection. Active cases can be presented with symptoms like cough, hemoptysis (blood in the sputum), fever, weight loss, etc.
Tuberculosis treatment comprises a combination of drugs and may continue for a long period for complete elimination of bacteria and to avoid resistance against antibiotics used.. Most patients recover completely from the disease. However, vulnerable patients, such as HIV-affected individuals or those with lower immunity, suffer from a severe type of disease.
In 2019, an estimated 10 million people suffered from tuberculosis, of which 2.6 million were Indians. Although the cases of TB in India are high, the Government provides support to all the TB patients with programmes such as NTEP, DOTS and Nikshay patrika, which are aimed to improve treatment with free medicines and support.
