Tuberculosis in India: A Persistent Public Health Challenge
Introduction Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis . Despite being preventable and curable, TB remains a major public health concern in India, accounting for the highest burden of cases globally. The Indian government, through initiatives like the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP), is actively working to control and eliminate the disease. Origins and Spread TB has existed for thousands of years, with evidence found in Egyptian mummies. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Overcrowding, poor ventilation, and malnutrition contribute to its rapid transmission, making densely populated regions in India particularly vulnerable. Symptoms Common symptoms of TB include: Persistent cough lasting more than two weeks Chest pain Coughing up blood Fever and night sweats Unexplained weight loss Fatigue Death Rate and Impact TB is one of the deadliest infectious diseases in India. According t...