Summary
The number of people diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) worldwide increased in 2024, reaching a new record, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This rise is seen as an improvement in detection and treatment post-COVID-19 disruptions. However, TB-related deaths slightly decreased last year.
Key Facts
- In 2024, about 8.3 million people worldwide were newly diagnosed with TB.
- This number represents 78% of the estimated total of people who fell ill with TB globally.
- The increase suggests better TB screening and treatment after disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- TB-related deaths globally dropped to 1.23 million in 2024, from 1.25 million in 2023.
- In the U.S., TB cases rose to the highest level in over 12 years.
- Most U.S. TB cases occur in people born outside the country.
- TB is a bacterial disease that attacks the lungs and can be spread through the air.
- WHO's latest TB report used data from 184 countries.
