Health official sound alarm over surging tuberculosis cases

Startling statistics reveal that approximately 94,000 Ugandans succumb to TB annually, with a staggering 240 individuals falling ill each day.

As the global battle against tuberculosis (TB) intensifies, Uganda finds itself entrenched among the top 30 nations grappling with the highest burden of this infectious disease.

Tragically, the toll of this silent killer claims the lives of about 30 people daily.

Dr Stavia Turyahabwe, the assistant commissioner overseeing tuberculosis and leprosy control at the Ministry of Health, expressed grave concern over the escalating crisis.

"The surge in TB cases can be attributed to late diagnosis and the deplorable living conditions endured by many individuals," Turyahabwe said

Notably, Uganda's battle against TB is further compounded by the intersection with HIV, with 32 percent of TB patients also infected with HIV.

"Each year, the dual burden of TB and HIV presents a formidable challenge, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to tackle both diseases," remarked Turyahabwe said.

Shockingly, the scourge of drug-resistant TB looms ominously, with two out of every 100 TB patients exhibiting resistance to first-line drugs.

Moreover, children under the age of 14 bear a disproportionate burden, accounting for approximately 15 percent of TB cases in Uganda.

Despite concerted efforts to combat TB, it remains the fourth leading cause of death among communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases in Uganda.