Islamabad
On the occasion of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day 2026, Pakistan has emphasized the urgent need for coordinated, sustained, and comprehensive efforts to eliminate tuberculosis. Despite being both preventable and curable, TB remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases globally. Persistent challenges such as stigma, inadequate funding, and weaknesses in the healthcare system continue to hinder progress in combating the disease.
Tuberculosis remains the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 10.7 million people fell ill with TB in 2024, while 1.23 million lost their lives to the disease. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.
Although it primarily affects the lungs, it can also impact other vital organs, including the brain, kidneys, and spine. Globally, 54% of TB patients are men, 35% women, and 11% children, with pediatric TB still receiving insufficient attention.
Pakistan continues to bear a high TB burden, reporting around 670,000 new cases annually, accounting for approximately 6.3% of the global TB burden. Despite global commitments, including high-level United Nations meetings, progress remains slow, particularly in high-burden countries like Pakistan.
Efforts to combat TB in Pakistan have been significantly strengthened through collaboration between the public and private sectors. Mercy Corps Pakistan, in partnership with the National TB Control Program and provincial TB programs, and with support from the Global Fund, has expanded access to TB services through public-private mix models, benefiting millions of people, especially in underserved areas.
Country Director of Mercy Corps Pakistan, Mr. Arif Jabbar Khan, stated: “Ending TB requires more than just medical treatment; it demands public awareness and equitable access to services. While progress has been made through public-private partnerships, stigma and misinformation continue to delay treatment and contribute to the spread of the disease.
There is a critical need to enhance community-level awareness, expand preventive treatment, and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services for all, including children. Strengthening supply chains and investing in sustainable systems are essential to achieving a TB-free Pakistan” he further added:
“The National TB Control Program and provincial TB programs are doing commendable work in the fight against TB in Pakistan. Under the leadership of the NTP, we remain optimistic about achieving national targets while simultaneously strengthening the overall healthcare system for long-term impact.”
Heads of implementing partner organizations, including Dr. Akmal Naveed (Association for Community Development), Dr. Muhammad Amir Khan (Association for Social Development), Dr. Syed Sharaf Ali Shah (Bridge Consultants Foundation), Dr. M. Khalid Farogh (Greenstar Social Marketing), Mr. Mervyn Lobo (Marie Adelaide Leprosy Center), and Ms. Arifa Mazhar (Strengthening Participatory Organization), also stressed the importance of community-level interventions.
In a joint statement, they noted:
“TB is not only a medical issue but also a social challenge linked to poverty, stigma, and lack of awareness. Many patients delay seeking treatment due to fear and misconceptions, leading to further transmission and poor outcomes. Expanding community-based services, promoting dignified and patient-centered care, and increasing awareness are crucial for early diagnosis and successful treatment.”
Reaffirming their support for the national response, partner organizations stated:
“Eliminating TB is essential for both public health and national development. Addressing funding gaps, strengthening preventive measures, and tackling the social determinants of TB are critical. A coordinated, multi-sectoral approach involving government, partners, and communities is key to accelerating progress and achieving national and global targets.”
Experts believe that eliminating TB in Pakistan is achievable, provided there is sustained political commitment, increased domestic investment, and strengthened healthcare systems. Expanding preventive treatment, ensuring uninterrupted drug supply, investing in local pharmaceutical production, and prioritizing community awareness are vital steps.
On World TB Day 2026, stakeholders across Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to ending TB, emphasizing that while the goal is achievable, it requires collective action, strong partnerships, and unwavering commitment.
