Every year on March 24, the world observes World Tuberculosis (TB) Day to raise awareness about tuberculosis, its early symptoms, and the importance of timely screening. TB remains a global health threat, causing millions of infections and deaths worldwide. Although it is preventable and curable, delayed diagnosis can lead to severe lung damage, transmission, and even death.

In this blog, we will explore the early warning signs of TB, why screening is essential, and how early detection can save lives.

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, which primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other organs like the kidneys, bones, and brain. TB spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.

TB is categorized into two types:

  • Latent TB – The bacteria remain inactive in the body without symptoms, but can become active later.
  • Active TB – The bacteria multiply and cause symptoms, making the person contagious.

Early Signs and Symptoms of TB

Recognizing early TB symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Common warning signs include:

1. Persistent Cough (More Than 3 Weeks)

  • A chronic cough that lasts over three weeks is one of the first signs of TB.
  • The cough may produce phlegm (mucus) or blood in advanced cases.

2. Unexplained Weight Loss

  • Sudden weight loss without dieting or exercise can indicate TB, as the infection weakens the body.

3. Fever and Chills

  • Low-grade fevers, especially in the evening or night, are common in TB patients.
  • Fever may be accompanied by chills and night sweats.

4. Night Sweats

  • Excessive sweating during sleep, even in cold weather, is a red flag for TB.

5. Fatigue and Weakness

  • TB drains energy, making individuals feel constantly tired, weak, and unable to perform daily tasks.

6. Chest Pain and Difficulty Breathing

  • As TB progresses, it can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and discomfort while breathing.

7. Loss of Appetite

  • TB often causes a reduced appetite, leading to malnutrition and weakness.

8. Swollen Lymph Nodes

  • TB can spread to the lymph nodes, causing swelling in the neck and armpits.

9. Blood in Cough (Hemoptysis)

  • In advanced cases, TB damages lung tissue, causing coughing up blood.

Why TB Screening is Crucial for Early Detection

TB screening is essential to diagnose and treat the infection before it spreads. Early detection helps prevent:

  • Severe lung damage and complications
  • Transmission to family, friends, and coworkers
  • Drug-resistant TB, which is harder to treat
  • Long-term health complications and death

Who Should Get Screened for TB?

High-risk groups should undergo regular TB screening, including:

  • People with prolonged cough or weight loss
  • Close contacts of TB patients
  • Healthcare workers exposed to TB patients
  • People with weakened immune systems (HIV/AIDS, diabetes, cancer patients)
  • Malnourished individuals and those living in poor hygiene conditions
  • People in crowded settings (prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters)

Types of TB Screening Tests

1. Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) or Mantoux Test

  • A small amount of TB protein (PPD) is injected under the skin.
  • A red, swollen bump after 48-72 hours indicates TB exposure.

2. Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) – Blood Test

  • Detects TB bacteria in the bloodstream and is commonly used for high-risk individuals.

3. Chest X-ray

  • Helps identify lung damage or active TB infection.

4. Sputum Test

  • A sample of mucus (phlegm) is tested for TB bacteria under a microscope.

Preventing TB: How to Protect Yourself and Others

1. Get Vaccinated (BCG Vaccine)

  • The BCG vaccine is given to infants in TB-prone regions to reduce the risk of severe TB.

2. Wear a Mask & Maintain Hygiene

  • TB spreads through airborne droplets, so wearing masks in high-risk areas can prevent transmission.

3. Ensure Proper Ventilation

  • TB bacteria thrive in closed, crowded spaces, so ensure good airflow in homes, schools, and workplaces.

4. Complete the Full TB Treatment Course

  • TB treatment (DOTS therapy) lasts 6-9 months.
  • Stopping medication early can lead to drug-resistant TB, making it harder to treat.

5. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet

  • Strengthen your immune system with protein-rich foods, fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

  • Smoking weakens the lungs, increasing TB severity.
  • Alcohol reduces immunity, making the body more vulnerable to TB infection.

Final Thoughts: Take Action on World TB Day

On World Tuberculosis Day, let's spread awareness about early TB symptoms, the importance of screening, and preventive measures. TB is curable with timely treatment, but delayed diagnosis can have life-threatening consequences.

If you or someone you know has a persistent cough, weight loss, or night sweats, consult a doctor and get screened for TB immediately. Together, we can fight TB and work towards a TB-free world.