Statement from TB Alliance on World TB Day
For most of human history, tuberculosis (TB) has been the world’s deadliest infectious disease. Today, this is still true, but for the first time, we can see a clear path to its eradication.
At TB Alliance, we have introduced child-appropriate TB treatments and transformed treatment for drug-resistant TB, making it shorter, simpler, more people-friendly, and more effective. We are working to bring the next generation of TB treatment innovations to the world. With the drug candidates and regimens currently in our pipeline and the innovative technologies also under investigation, we could soon realize a one-month treatment for all active TB regardless of its resistance profile, and a one-day treatment for latent TB. This “1 by 1” treatment paradigm could be a cornerstone for ending TB.
It may be surprising to hear that science is not the biggest obstacle in achieving these breakthroughs. TB research and development faces a paradox: just as we stand on the brink of a wave of innovations even more transformative than the last, investment in TB innovation is at risk of decline. Despite the demonstrated impact and cost effectiveness of product development partnerships (PDPs) like TB Alliance, funding has fallen over recent years.
Recent cuts to funding for TB care, surveillance, and research are likely to result in a loss of hard-won progress against the disease that will mean additional suffering in TB-affected communities, more formidable barriers to global economic development, and the potential delay of new technologies to more effectively prevent, diagnose, and treat TB. Like all the devastating impacts of TB, these consequences are preventable, as TB is curable and—with sufficient investment and political will—even eradicable.
To truly end TB, we must amplify investment in research, strengthen global partnerships, and accelerate access to new treatments. This means uniting governments, private sector leaders, and global health organizations in a renewed commitment to eradicating TB—one that matches the urgency of the crisis.
Now is the time to act. By prioritizing TB R&D today, we can ensure that lifesaving innovations in development reach the finish line and get to those who need them most.
TB is present in every country in the world, so wherever you are, join us in demanding urgent action, echoing the call for investment, and working toward a future where TB is no longer a threat. Together, we can end TB.