Governments and donors must ensure funding is sustained to fight tuberculosis (TB), organizations working to stop the disease have said, as they warn the recent US pullback on foreign aid is already having a devastating effect on their operations.
Tuberculosis, a disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide according to the World Health Organization. In 2018 alone, it claimed the lives of 1.5 million people. Despite being preventable and curable, TB continues to be a major public health threat, especially in low and middle-income countries where access to proper healthcare remains a challenge.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other groups have been at the forefront of the fight against TB, working tirelessly to provide services such as diagnosis, treatment, and prevention in communities where the disease is prevalent. However, their efforts are at risk of being severely impacted due to the recent reduction in foreign aid from the United States.
The US, which has been a major donor in the fight against TB, has announced a cut of $1.35 billion in foreign aid for the year 2020. This decision has sent shockwaves throughout the global health community, with organizations expressing concerns about the potential devastating effects it could have on their operations.
According to the Stop TB Partnership, a global initiative to end TB, the US funding cuts will lead to a 20% reduction in TB services in 37 countries. This includes a significant drop in the availability of treatments, which could result in an increase in drug-resistant strains of TB. This is a major setback in the progress made towards ending the disease.
NGOs and other groups have highlighted the critical role they play in national efforts to stop TB. They have been working collaboratively with governments and other stakeholders to develop and implement strategies to combat the disease. However, without sufficient funding, their ability to continue their crucial work is severely compromised.
In the face of this alarming situation, governments and other donors must step up to ensure funding is sustained in the fight against TB. It is essential that they understand the gravity of the situation and act accordingly, before it is too late.
Investing in TB prevention and treatment not only saves lives but also has a significant economic impact. According to the World Health Organization, every dollar invested in TB yields an economic return of $43. This shows that funding for TB programs is not just a moral obligation but also a smart investment.
Moreover, with the current COVID-19 pandemic, it is more critical than ever to maintain and strengthen efforts to tackle TB. People with compromised immune systems, such as those with TB, are at a higher risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain TB services to prevent an even more significant public health crisis.
In addition to sustained funding, governments and donors must also work towards improving the effectiveness and efficiency of TB programs. This includes strengthening healthcare systems, increasing access to affordable and quality medicines, and addressing social determinants of health that contribute to the spread of the disease.
On this World TB Day, let us remember that tuberculosis is not a disease of the past. It is a present-day reality that continues to claim lives and devastate communities. The recent global health crisis has shown us the importance of preparedness and collaboration in fighting diseases. We cannot afford to lose ground on the progress made in the fight against TB.
Governments and donors must prioritize and sustain funding for TB programs to ensure that NGOs and other organizations working to stop the disease can continue their vital work. Let us join hands and work towards making tuberculosis a disease of the past, for a healthier and brighter future for all.
