Kathmandu: World Tuberculosis Day is being observed today under the slogan: “Yes! We Can End TB: Our Contribution to the National Campaign.”
The day is marked annually on March 24 to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB) and efforts to eliminate it. Nepal aims to end TB by 2035 and become TB-free by 2050.
According to the World Health Organization, around 67,000 new TB cases were recorded in Nepal in 2024. Treatment services are available in 6,241 health institutions, with diagnostic and rapid testing services provided free of cost in many centers.
Symptoms of TB include prolonged cough (more than three weeks), blood in sputum, chest pain, weight loss, fatigue, and excessive sweating. Health authorities urge individuals experiencing such symptoms to seek medical testing promptly.
Experts emphasize that TB is more likely to affect individuals with weak immunity, including those who smoke, consume alcohol, or use drugs. Regular and complete intake of medication can cure the disease.
Authorities have urged local governments to conduct awareness campaigns and maximize available resources to control the spread of tuberculosis.
