Global TB funding lags, reaching only a quarter of WHO targets

The Hindu
The Hindu
2M ago
36 views
Global funding for tuberculosis (TB) treatment and research is only a quarter of what the WHO targets, risking millions of lives. Over 12 lakh people died from TB last year.
Global TB funding lags, reaching only a quarter of WHO targets
A What happened
The WHO's Global Tuberculosis Report 2025 highlights a critical funding gap in the fight against tuberculosis (TB), with global funding reaching only 25% of the $22 billion target for 2027. In 2024, only $5.9 billion was available for TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The report indicates that TB remains a leading cause of death, claiming over 12 lakh lives last year. Eight countries account for 67% of TB cases, with India having the highest burden. While there have been improvements in diagnosis and treatment, funding cuts threaten to reverse progress. Modelling studies predict that long-term funding reductions could lead to an additional 20 lakh deaths by 2035. The WHO emphasizes the need for increased political commitment and investment to combat TB effectively.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Funding Shortfall: Global TB funding is only 25% of the required target.

  • 2

    High Mortality Rate: Over 12 lakh people died from TB last year.

  • 3

    Risk of Future Deaths: Funding cuts could lead to 20 lakh additional deaths by 2035.

  • 4

    Need for Political Commitment: Increased investment and commitment are essential to combat TB.

Takeaways

The WHO's report underscores the urgent need for increased funding and political commitment to combat tuberculosis effectively. Without these efforts, the progress made in recent years could be jeopardized, leading to more deaths and suffering.

Topics

Health & Medicine Medicine Public Health World & Politics Policy & Regulation

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