Every year on March 24, the world observes World Tuberculosis Day to commemorate the discovery of the TB bacillus and renew commitment toward ending one of humanity’s deadliest infectious diseases. In 2026, this day carries particular urgency for Pakistan, which remains among the top contributors to the global TB burden.

Tuberculosis is both preventable and curable, yet it continues to claim thousands of lives annually in Pakistan. The country accounts for about 6.3% of global TB cases and ranks among the top five high-burden nations. With an incidence of around 277 cases per 100,000 population, Pakistan faces over 600,000 new and relapse cases each year. Even more concerning are the “missing cases”—individuals undiagnosed or unreported, sustaining transmission within communities. The persistence of TB reflects deep-rooted socio-economic challenges. Poverty, overcrowding,........

© Pakistan Observer