The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent call to enhance research, innovation, and regional cooperation to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) in the South-East Asia region — a region that continues to carry nearly half of the global TB burden. Speaking at the launch of a three-day virtual workshop focused on advancing TB research and innovation, Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge for WHO South-East Asia, emphasized that in 2023 alone, the region saw nearly 5 million new TB cases and around 600,000 related deaths. The workshop brings together national TB programme leaders, scientists, civil society members, and global partners to push forward efforts aligned with the WHO’s End TB Strategy. The Need for Urgency and Collaboration Dr. Boehme highlighted that ending TB demands the rapid adoption of new tools, diagnostics, and treatments — and, more importantly, equitable and timely access to these innovations. “Collaboration is key to scaling up impact and ensuring that no one is left behind,” she stated. Despite a post-COVID-19 rebound in TB case detection in 2023, current progress is falling short of the End TB Strategy’s 2030 goals: a 90% drop in TB-related deaths and an 80% decline in incidence compared to 2015. Alarmingly, TB has returned as the world’s leading cause of death from a single infectious disease, with its effects disproportionately hitting the poorest and most vulnerable communities. In South-East Asia, between 30% and 80% of TB-affected households experience catastrophic healthcare expenses, pointing to the urgent need for inclusive, people-first approaches and stronger social protection systems. Signs of Progress Amidst Challenges Still, there are signs of advancement. In 2023, the region recorded 3.8 million new or relapsed TB cases, with an 89% treatment success rate among those who began treatment in 2022. The number of undiagnosed cases was significantly reduced — down to 22% from 44% in 2020. Countries are increasingly adopting technology-driven solutions such as artificial intelligence for detecting TB, digital adherence tools to monitor treatment, and direct benefit transfers to ease patients’ financial burdens. These innovations are being powered by strong political will and national commitment. Several countries have also expanded research efforts. Bangladesh has concluded a national patient cost survey, while India’s RATIONS study provided valuable insights on the role of nutrition in TB prevention and recovery. Nepal’s “TB-Free Pallika” initiative and Myanmar’s multisectoral coordination model are examples of community-led innovations that prioritize vulnerable populations. According to WHO, over 3,000 TB-related research papers were published by South-East Asian countries in the past six years, with 60% being original research. However, the challenge lies in transforming these findings into action, as knowledge gaps and lack of collaborative platforms hinder broader impact. Strengthening Regional and Global Coordination The workshop will also focus on building stronger South-South collaboration, vaccine readiness, use of digital tools for patient care, and tackling vaccine hesitancy. Discussions will revolve around aligning regulatory frameworks, improving knowledge-sharing platforms, and setting research priorities that address underlying drivers of TB — such as malnutrition and climate-related risks. Dr. Boehme noted the growing threat posed by drug-resistant TB and emphasized the importance of ensuring that scientific progress benefits everyone equally. “Access to new vaccines, medicines, and diagnostics must be equitable. Reaching underserved communities through proactive case-finding and offering socio-economic support is essential in mitigating the financial toll of TB,” she concluded. Source: PTI Photo Credit: Getty Images
