World TB Day: History, significance and why it matters

World TB Day is a reminder that TB is not just a disease of the past—it’s a present and urgent challenge. (Image: Freepik)

Every year on March 24, the world observes World Tuberculosis (TB) Day to raise awareness about one of the oldest and deadliest infectious diseases. Despite being preventable and curable, TB continues to claim millions of lives annually, making it a pressing global health challenge. World TB Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to accelerate efforts to eliminate the disease and ensure equitable access to prevention, diagnosis and treatment for all.

History of World TB Day

World TB Day commemorates the day in 1882 when Dr Robert Koch, a German physician and microbiologist, announced his discovery of bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the cause of tuberculosis. This groundbreaking discovery paved the way for diagnosing and treating the disease, which had plagued humanity for centuries.

At the time of Koch's discovery, TB was a leading cause of death in Europe and the Americas, earning it the grim nickname 'The White Plague'. The disease was shrouded in stigma and fear, often associated with poverty and overcrowded living conditions. Koch's work marked a turning point in the fight against TB, leading to the development of the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine in the 1920s and later, effective antibiotics like streptomycin and isoniazid.

In 1982, on the centenary of Koch's discovery, the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease proposed observing Match 24 as World TB Day. The day was officially recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other global health organisations, and it has since become an annual event to mobilise political and social commitment to end TB.

Also Read | World TB Day: These lifestyle adjustments can help minimise the risk of tuberculosis transfer

World TB Day is an opportunity for everyone to play a role in ending TB. (Image: Freepik)

Significance

World TB Day is more than just a commemoration—it's a call to action. The day aims to:

1) Raise awareness: Educate the public about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of TB.

2) Advocate for resources: Mobilise funding and political will to support TB research, prevention, and treatment programs.

3) Combat stigma: Address the social stigma associated with TB, which often prevents individuals from seeking care.

4) Celebrate progress: Highlight advancements in TB diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

5) Accelerate action: Urge governments, organisations, and communities to intensify efforts to meet global TB elimination targets.

Also Read | World Tuberculosis Day 2025: Symptoms, causes, risk factors of this infectious disease

On this World TB Day, let us renew our commitment to ending TB. Together, we can turn the tide against this disease and ensure a healthier, TB-free future for all.