Nigeria faces a severe tuberculosis (TB) crisis, with the highest burden in Africa. Annually, over 361,000 cases are reported, with 268 deaths per day. The World Health Organization highlights significant gaps in detection and treatment, exacerbated by factors like malnutrition and drug resistance. Strong government investment and innovative strategies are necessary for effective TB management and ultimate eradication.
As World Tuberculosis (TB) Day approaches, themed “Yes! We can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” the urgency for Nigerian leaders to prioritize the eradication of tuberculosis, the world’s deadliest infectious disease, is emphasized. Since its inception in 1982, this annual observance serves as a reminder of the global call to action against TB, which has devastating health, social, and economic impacts on millions.
Tuberculosis is an airborne disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Despite TB being preventable and curable, it ranks among the top ten causes of death globally. An NGO, KNCV Nigeria, reports that annually, about 10 million people develop active TB, with 1.1 million cases occurring among children and 860,000 in individuals living with HIV. The disease caused approximately 1.25 million deaths in 2023, including 161,000 HIV-positive individuals.
Symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough lasting three weeks or more, chest pain, and coughing up blood or sputum. Other signs consist of weakness or fatigue, weight loss, decreased appetite, chills, fever, and night sweats. In Africa, Nigeria bears the highest TB burden, with the WHO reporting that 268 people die daily from the disease—numbers that may be underreported, escalating the risk of transmission.
In 2023, provisional data indicated that over 361,000 TB cases were reported in Nigeria, reflecting a 26% increase from the previous year, with children accounting for 9% of these cases. Nigeria contributes approximately 4.6% of the global TB burden, yielding around 125,000 deaths annually. The WHO’s 2019 Global TB Report highlighted a 24% detection rate, with only 20% of health facilities capable of offering TB services.
Contributors to TB prevalence include malnutrition (20%), HIV (12%), diabetes (3%), and alcohol use disorder (1%). Drug-resistant TB also hampers treatment efficacy, with many Nigerians missing out on necessary care due to gaps in domestic funding, estimated at 69% below required levels. Other barriers encompass stigma, lack of awareness, and inadequate access to healthcare.
The WHO notes that detection gaps are particularly significant in children, often due to insufficiently trained health workers and community awareness. To combat TB effectively, government commitment is crucial at all levels to strengthen the healthcare sector for those affected. Increased investment from federal and state governments is needed to enhance access to medical facilities and services in both urban and rural areas.
Nigeria’s National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, alongside partners like the WHO, must advance innovative strategies across the 36 states. These should focus on increased TB awareness and improved testing and treatment options to ultimately end this public health crisis.
The urgency to combat tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria is critical as the country holds a significant share of the global burden. With over 361,000 reported cases in 2023 alone and a high death rate, proactive measures are essential. Insufficient funding, lack of awareness, and inadequate health services hinder efforts. To successfully mitigate TB, collaboration between government, health organizations, and communities is essential to improve detection, treatment, and prevention strategies.
Original Source: punchng.com
