World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, observed annually on March 24, serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness about the global TB epidemic and its profound health, social, and economic impacts. According to World Health Organisation (WHO) data, South Africa ranks among the top five countries worldwide with the highest burden of TB, with over 500 cases per 100,000 population.
THINK South Africa, is a local non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing health and well-being for vulnerable communities, proudly stands in solidarity with the world in commemorating World TB Day. The theme for this year is ‘Yes! You and I Can End TB,’ emphasises the importance of collaborative efforts among TB-affected individuals, communities, civil society, and innovators in our collective journey towards ending TB by 2030.
TB affect individuals and communities causing families to lose breadwinners, children to lose parents, and economies to suffer. Despite significant progress, TB remains one of the deadliest diseases globally, with a concerning rise in drug-resistant TB cases. However, it’s crucial to remember that TB is treatable and curable with strict adherence to treatment.
Be vigilant for any of the TB symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, decreased appetite, fever, productive cough, night sweats, or if you’ve been in close contact with someone diagnosed with TB. The most infectious period for TB is before treatment, but once drug treatment commences, the infected individual becomes noncontagious within weeks.
Aligned with THINK South Africa’s commitment to TB eradication, the organisation has embraced an ‘Innovate to Eradicate’ approach. Through extensive research, clinical trials, health systems strengthening, patient-centred care and community engagement, THINK has achieved significant milestones. Notably, the treatment duration for drug-resistant TB has been reduced from two years to six months, and three new TB drugs have been developed for affected patients respectively, prompting revisions to the World Health Organisation’s TB treatment guidelines.
On World TB Day, THINK urges all South Africans to unite in the fight against TB, championing these fundamental principles:
- Get tested: Promote early detection and effective treatment by encouraging individuals experiencing TB-related symptoms to undergo testing.
- Prevention Saves Lives: Promote preventative therapy and measures such as infection control, proper hygiene, and awareness.
- Treatment Works: Emphasise that TB is treatable, underscoring the importance of adhering to treatment regimens.
Follow us on social media or visit our website at www.think.international to learn more about our work, access educational resources, and join the fight against TB.