What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious and potentially severe infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
The symptoms of TB may include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, fatigue, fever, and night sweats. Some people may not show any symptoms, which is known as latent TB.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing TB involves a series of tests, including chest X-rays, sputum tests, and skin tests. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics taken for several months to effectively kill the bacteria.
Prevention of Tuberculosis
Preventing TB involves vaccination, proper ventilation, wearing masks in crowded areas, and early detection and treatment of the disease.
Global Impact of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis remains a major global health problem, with an estimated 10 million new cases reported each year. It is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide, primarily affecting low- and middle-income countries.
Case Studies
- Case 1: In 2019, an estimated 1.4 million people died from TB worldwide, with over 95% of cases occurring in developing countries.
- Case 2: Drug-resistant TB is a growing concern, with approximately 500,000 cases reported each year.
