Experts: 10.7 million cases of tuberculosis worldwide, and the solution lies in early diagnosis

Experts confirmed to Al-Youm that tuberculosis It remains a major global health challenge after causing the death of nearly one million people and infecting 10.7 million others worldwide during 2024, including 5.8 million men, 3.7 million women and 1.2 million children.
They explained in their interview with “Al-Youm” on the occasion World Tuberculosis Day The Kingdom, which observes World Tuberculosis Day on March 24th each year, has succeeded in reducing the prevalence of the disease thanks to strict adherence to the guidelines According to the Ministry of Health protocols that include the BCG vaccine As a fundamental pillar and a comprehensive examination of expatriate workers.
They pointed out that bacterial infections transmitted through the air and droplets require community awareness to avoid crowded, poorly ventilated places, along with the necessity of adhering to treatment to prevent bacteria from mutating into antibiotic-resistant strains.

Global indicators

Dr. Alian Al-Alian, a consultant in infectious diseases, stated that tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial disease transmitted through the air. It primarily affects the lungs, known as pulmonary TB, but can also affect other parts of the body, in which case it is called extrapulmonary TB.
He said that its most prominent symptoms include a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, sometimes with blood, weight loss, general weakness, night sweats, fever, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
He added, "Unfortunately, according to statistics, nearly one million people died from TB in 2024, and 10.7 million people were infected with TB worldwide in 2024, including 5.8 million men, 3.7 million women, and 1.2 million children. The disease is present in all countries and age groups."
He continued, "TB is considered the leading cause of death among people living with HIV in 2024 and one of the biggest causes of death related to antimicrobial resistance."

Methods of transmission of infection

Al-Aliyan said that this disease is transmitted through the air by droplets expelled from an infected person, whether through coughing, sneezing, or talking, especially in enclosed spaces.

He added, “To prevent it, enclosed spaces should be ventilated, masks should be worn, the mouth should be covered when coughing, and the BCG vaccine should
He continued, “In the Kingdom, thank God, the rate of disease spread is low. This is due to the Ministry of Health’s commitment to strict measures to combat this disease by making the BCG vaccine one of the essential childhood vaccines, given at six months of age. Comprehensive screening is also conducted for all expatriate workers in the Kingdom, especially those coming from areas where such diseases are prevalent. The disease is diagnosed and treated promptly if discovered, and all contacts are traced and tested.”
He emphasized that such international days for infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, are among the most important initiatives undertaken by health organizations, especially the World Health Organization, which help reduce the risks and concerns surrounding the spread of this disease and increase public awareness.

Tuberculosis complications

Dr. Nawal Al-Qubaisi, consultant and head of the Pulmonary Unit in the Internal Medicine Department at King Fahd Military Medical Complex in Dhahran, explained that the most prominent mode of transmission for tuberculosis is through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing, for example, in cases of pulmonary tuberculosis. Dr.
Al-Qubaisi stated, “The likelihood of infection increases in crowded, poorly ventilated places, so these should be avoided as much as possible and for the shortest possible time. Furthermore, general immunity should be strengthened through sleep and a healthy diet.”

She added: “When interacting with patients with infectious tuberculosis in isolation rooms, special masks must be worn and the hospital’s infection control instructions must be followed.”.

early diagnosis

Al-Qubaisi emphasized that early diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis is crucial to avoid chronic complications that can lead to respiratory failure. The infection can also spread to other vital organs or the bloodstream if diagnosis is delayed, potentially resulting in death.
These complications can also occur if the patient does not adhere to the prescribed course of treatment. Failure to continue taking medication can lead to the development of a drug-resistant strain of tuberculosis bacteria, making it more difficult to treat. Even in such cases, the patient must be transparent with their doctor to ensure appropriate intervention.

community awareness

Al Qubaisi pointed out that people naturally fear what they don't understand, and that awareness is the first step in confronting the disease. Awareness campaigns succeed in removing the social stigma surrounding the patient among the general public and also encourage patients not to hesitate to seek early diagnosis if they suspect infection, thus avoiding complications and the spread of the disease.
Furthermore, those who participate in these awareness campaigns learn about their social responsibility to prevent the spread of infection by testing those who have been in contact with infected individuals and taking the necessary precautions.

Regular follow-up

A consultant and head of the Pulmonary Unit in the Internal Medicine Department at King Fahd Military Medical Complex emphasized that close and regular follow-up of tuberculosis patients is extremely important, though it can be challenging given the busy schedules of clinics and patients' lack of adherence to follow-up appointments.
She explained that the Ministry of Health is making organized and intensive efforts by assigning teams specifically to monitor tuberculosis patients and ensure their adherence to medication regimens, with the aim of eliminating the tuberculosis epidemic in the country, God willing.

Treatment opportunities

Al Qubaisi said, “In our medical practice, we have seen patients make a full recovery after adhering to regular checkups and medications. Unfortunately, we have also encountered patients who refused to undergo the necessary diagnostic tests and begin treatment, ultimately resulting in significant lung tissue loss and respiratory failure.”
She added, “We urge patients to trust in God and then in the medical advice of specialists to achieve complete recovery, God willing. This is a very achievable goal when the correct steps are taken for early diagnosis and treatment.”