Shining the spotlight on TB

Each year, we recognise World TB Day on March 24. This annual event commemorates the day, in 1882, when Dr. Robert Koch announced his discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacillus (bacteria) that causes tuberculosis (TB).

What is TB?

It’s a disease that mainly affects the lungs but can also be found in any other body organ. It is caused by an organism (germ) called Mycobacterium tuberculosis which is found in the sputum coughed up by someone with TB of the lungs. It usually destroys the soft tissue of the lungs, resulting in difficulty breathing and blood can be coughed up in severe cases. If untreated, TB can cause death.

World stats

About a quarter of the global population is estimated to have been infected with TB, 5 -10% display symptoms and develop the disease.

Yes, it’s curable

‘It is important to remember that TB is curable, says Dr Themba Hadebe, Clinical and Managed Care Executive at Bonitas Medical Fund. ‘However, we all need to be more aware of how contagious it is, the symptoms, the importance of getting medical attention and sticking to the treatment programme.’

Where is the highest incidence of TB?

TB is the leading cause of death, from a single infectious agent, with over 25% of these occurring in the African region. Multi-drug-resistant strains, which do not respond to first-line antibiotics, continue to emerge, putting at risk public health strategies which aim to reduce incidence and mortality.

Tackling TB head on

The South African National Strategic Plan (NSP) aims to control the spread of TB, with an ambitious goal of zero new TB infections and deaths by 2032. Clinical data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that there are still too many people falling ill and dying.

‘TB also has a big impact on the economy, not only in terms of healthcare expenses but lost productivity due to absenteeism and the direct and indirect costs to business,’ says Dr Hadebe. ‘We know that not everyone has access to private medical care but public healthcare facilities offer free testing and treatment. The most effective testing method is a sputum sample or a chest x-ray.

How is TB contracted?

The disease is passed on from one person to another as germs spread into the air via microscopic droplets if an infected person sneezes, coughs or releases saliva. The incubation period is 6 weeks.

Stop it before it starts

TB preventive therapy (TPT) is a course of medication that reduces the risk of developing TB disease. It's a critical public health measure in South Africa, where TB and HIV are prevalent.

How does TPT work?

TPT eliminates the TB bacteria before they can damage organs and cause illness but is only effective if given when there is no active TB disease.

Can you have TB and not be sick?

Yes, TB can be ‘latent’ - it’s in your body but not active. This means you can’t spread it but, if your immune system becomes weak, (for example with HIV/AIDS), TB can become active.

What are the symptoms?