Funding Cuts Threaten Resurgence of Tuberculosis Amid Growing Outbreaks
TL/DR –
Tuberculosis outbreaks are increasing in the US and globally, largely due to cuts in funding for public health programs. Celebrity author John Green and IT specialist James Brookes have joined forces with others in the TBFighters group to advocate for increased funding and attention to the disease, which is curable but remains problematic, especially in impoverished areas. Their recent efforts have resulted in lowered prices for the TB drug bedaquiline and diagnostic tests, while the expectation of a 28-32% increase in global TB cases, including drug-resistant forms, over the next two years, has spurred them to continue their advocacy work.
Concerns Over Tuberculosis Resurgence as Funding Cuts Threaten Public Health
Amid severe reductions in funding for local, state, and international public health programs, the threat of a tuberculosis resurgence, including drug-resistant strains, looms in the US and globally.
Public Health Funding May Eradicate Tuberculosis
Boosting funding for public health efforts could feasibly eradicate tuberculosis (TB), suggests Idaho IT specialist James Brookes, who discussed his view with Congress representatives recently.
Advocacy on the Rise
Brookes has joined author and vlogger John Green in advocating for better TB prevention, even though he doesn’t have a personal connection to the disease. Green, a vocal TB fighter, called for volunteers to participate in TB Hill Day in Washington DC, leading to Brookes and other advocates’ attendance.
Global Impact of Tuberculosis
About 250 TB advocates convened in Washington to learn about TB testing, treatment, and prevention. This marked a significant increase in attendance compared to last year’s TB Hill Day, reflecting growing awareness of the disease. Despite advancements in TB treatments, the disease is still prevalent, especially amongst impoverished communities.
Author John Green Joins the Fight
Bestselling author John Green is determined to bring more attention to TB and believes the world could live without it. He blames the persistence of TB, a disease that should have been eradicated decades ago, on poor public health funding and lack of access to care.
Public Health Funding Cuts and the Rise of TB
Recent cuts to public health initiatives, including the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local and state health departments, have potentially reversed progress on TB control. The consequences could be dire, with predictions of a 28-32% global increase in TB cases, including drug-resistant strains.
Successful Advocacy Efforts to Lower TB Drug Prices
Green and the TBFighters have successfully pushed for the reduction of drug prices and diagnostic tests for TB. Green believes awareness is key in fighting the disease. “The more they learn about the disease, the more they realize the importance of eradicating it,” Green said.
Advocates Learn Skills for Future Activism
Advocates like Brookes are leveraging their experience to tackle other issues. Inspired by his advocacy for his daughter, who has cerebral palsy and autism, Brookes aims to fight for better health outcomes globally, benefiting his local community and his daughter.
Looking to the Future
Despite initial nerves, Brookes’ meetings with Congress members exceeded expectations. He plans to follow up with Partners in Health to provide more information to those in Congress. “This trip is just the beginning,” he said.
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