Rising burden of Tuberculosis alarms health authorities

Bhubaneswar: Tuberculosis (TB) is emerging as a major public health concern in Odisha, with thousands of patients failing to recover despite undergoing treatment, raising serious questions about disease management and healthcare access.

Low recovery rates despite high detection

Data presented in the Assembly by Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling revealed a worrying trend over the past three years.

In 2022, a total of 59,732 TB cases were detected, but only 26,126 patients recovered, leaving 33,606 still battling the disease.

In 2023, the number of detected cases rose to 61,285, of which just 27,345 patients were cured, while 33,940 patients did not recover.

Similarly, in 2024, 59,819 TB cases were identified, but only 28,057 patients were declared disease-free, leaving 31,762 patients without full recovery.

Nearly 1 lakh patients yet to recover in three years

Cumulatively, nearly one lakh patients in the state have not been able to recover from TB over the last three years, despite receiving treatment. This highlights gaps in timely diagnosis, treatment adherence, and follow-up care.

Concerns over treatment effectiveness and awareness

The data has sparked concern among health experts, indicating potential issues such as drug resistance, lack of awareness, poor nutrition, and inadequate healthcare access, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities.

The situation underscores the urgent need for strengthened intervention strategies, improved patient monitoring, and enhanced public awareness to effectively combat the spread of tuberculosis in the state.