The World Health Organization has issued a stark warning that global progress against tuberculosis is at risk due to chronic underfunding. Despite being preventable and curable, the disease continues to strain health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
According to WHO’s 2025 World Report, an estimated 10.7 million people were infected with tuberculosis in 2024, and more than 1.2 million lives were lost. The report notes slight improvements between 2023 and 2024, including a 2% drop in new infections and a 3% decrease in deaths—signs that TB services are slowly recovering after COVID-19 disruptions.
Experts warn, however, that these gains could be reversed if funding gaps persist. Many countries still lack the resources needed to expand testing, strengthen treatment programmes, and support communities most affected by the disease.
Despite the challenges, global research momentum continues. WHO reports that 63 diagnostic tests, 29 drug candidates, and 18 potential vaccines are currently in clinical development—offering hope for faster detection, stronger treatment, and ultimately, a world free from tuberculosis.
