Overview:
World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise public awareness of the devastating health, social, and economic consequences of tuberculosis (TB), and to intensify global efforts to end the TB epidemic. This date marks the year 1882, when Dr. Robert Koch announced the discovery of the bacterium that causes TB, paving the way for diagnosis and treatment.
Objectives:
- Raise health awareness about tuberculosis and its health, social, and economic impacts.
- Promote preventive measures against TB.
- Renew political and social commitment to accelerate progress toward ending TB.
- Highlight global efforts aimed at eliminating tuberculosis.
Facts:
- Approximately 1.23 million people died from tuberculosis in 2024.
- About 10.7 million people worldwide developed TB in 2024, including 5.8 million men, 3.7 million women, and 1.2 million children, affecting all countries and age groups.
- TB was the leading cause of death among people living with HIV in 2024 and a major contributor to deaths from antimicrobial resistance.
- Global efforts to combat TB have saved an estimated 83 million lives since 2000.
- Tuberculosis is preventable and curable.
Official Date:
Globally: March 24th, 2026
Locally: Shawwal 5th, 1447H
References:
World Health Organization