TB : the silent threat lurking in your lungs

Tuberculosis (TB) is still one of the world's most deadly infectious diseases, and South Africa is among the countries with the highest TB diagnoses. According to Stats SA's June 2021 report, TB was the leading cause of death in the three years from 2016 to 2018. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors of TB - the condition can be prevented and is treatable if detected early. Here are some key facts to keep in mind:

• There is no shame in being diagnosed with TB.
• Even though TB is treatable, in 2022, 280000 people in South Africa fell ill with TB and 27450 died from the disease (according to new World Health Organization data).
• Men are more likely to contract TB and die from it, due to several factors including alcohol consumption and tobacco use.
• Symptoms of TB include a persistent cough (lasting for more than two weeks), coughing up blood or sputum, fever for more than two weeks, pain in the chest, weight loss, night sweats, and loss of appetite.
• You must seek medical advice if you or someone you know has these symptoms.

Remember, early diagnosis and treatment is necessary to keep your symptoms manageable and to control the spread of the infection to your friends and loved ones.