As the world observes World TB Day in 2024 with the theme “Yes! We can end TB,” it’s crucial to recognize the significant gap in TB program implementation and the need to pay closer attention to persons affected by tuberculosis. In 2022, an estimated 10.6 million people worldwide, including 5.8 million men, 3.5 million women, and 1.3 million children, fell ill with tuberculosis, with over 0.6 million cases reported in Pakistan alone.

Dr. Ghulam Nabi Kazi, President of the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City, emphasized the importance of focusing on individuals affected by TB, stating, “Anyone who can run a TB program can run the whole of health.” Drawing from personal experience, Dr. Kazi highlighted the critical role of healthcare professionals and caregivers in addressing the pain and challenges faced by those impacted by TB.

While acknowledging the contributions of global health policymakers such as Karel Styblo, Arata Kochi, Mario Raviglione, and Donald Enarson, it is essential to shift the focus towards the individuals affected by TB. Often overlooked and stigmatized, these individuals face significant barriers in accessing care and support, leading to challenges in treatment adherence and the development of drug resistance.

Research studies in Pakistan have revealed that the behavior of paramedical and support staff towards individuals affected by TB can intensify the stigma associated with the disease, hindering case finding and posing a threat to local communities. This underscores the critical need for a compassionate and supportive approach towards TB patients, encompassing not only medical professionals but also the broader healthcare ecosystem.

Furthermore, given that a quarter of the world’s population is infected with TB bacteria, with Pakistan being a high TB burden country, it is imperative to address the prevalence of latent TB in over a third of the population. Individuals with weakened immune systems, particularly those living with HIV, face a significantly higher risk of developing active TB, emphasizing the importance of targeted preventive treatment and comprehensive care strategies.

As the global community rallies to combat tuberculosis, it is essential to heed Dr. Kazi’s call for a more empathetic and inclusive approach towards individuals affected by TB. By bridging the gap in TB program implementation and fostering a supportive environment, we can strive towards the goal of ending TB and ensuring the well-being of all those impacted by this disease.