A medical expert has emphasized the need for increased commitment, investment, and action in the fight against Tuberculosis (TB), as the world marks 2025World Tuberculosis Day today, with the theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver.”
Speaking with our Correspondent, Uwakmfon Walter, in an interview, a Nigerian Registered Nurse, Akwaowo Akpan, highlighted key aspects of TB prevention, treatment, and global efforts to eradicate the disease, noting that TB spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
According to him, Common symptoms of TB include; Persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood, night sweats, among others, adding that certain groups that are vulnerable to developing active TB, include; People with weakened immune systems, those living in crowded or poorly ventilated environments, people with substance abuse issues, including tobacco and alcohol use.
Akwaowo highlighted some measures to curb transmission of TB to be; early detection and treatment to prevent further spread, improved ventilation in living and working environments, use of masks by infected individuals to reduce airborne transmission, vaccination with the BCG vaccine, particularly for children in high-risk regions.
The expert stressed that nutrition plays a vital role in TB prevention and recovery, maintaining that a strong immune system helps fight infection. He recommended Protein-rich foods to aid recovery, vitamins A, C, and E to boost immunity, adequate hydration and rest to support healing. He also advised TB patients to avoid smoking and alcohol, as these weaken the lungs and slow down recovery.
Speaking on this year’s theme, the expert called for stronger collaboration among governments, health organizations, and the private sector to end TB. He further urged international agencies to support countries battling drug-resistant TB and called for community involvement in awareness campaigns.
According to the World Health Organisation’s Global Tuberculosis report, approximately 8.2 million people were newly diagnosed with TB in 2023, the highest number ever recorded by the WHO.
World Tuberculosis Day, observed annually on March 24, serves as an opportunity to amplify the urgency of ending tuberculosis (TB), the world’s deadliest infectious disease.