Americas, TB screening and treatment innovations

Within the Americas, a 20% increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases has been observed over the last ten years, accompanied by a corresponding rise in mortality. On World Tuberculosis Day, commemorated on March 24th, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), drew attention to this increase in both TB cases and associated deaths within the region. Current estimates indicate approximately 900 daily diagnoses and 100 daily deaths in the Americas, with the disease disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, including indigenous communities, individuals with chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems, migrants, the unhoused, and incarcerated individuals. Dr. Barbosa has urged nations within the Americas to leverage technological and innovative advancements to counteract this trend, which is further intensified by socioeconomic disparities. Recognizing that early diagnosis substantially diminishes the potential for community transmission, PAHO advocates for the implementation of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence-supported radiography, rapid molecular diagnostic testing, and telemedicine consultations to improve access to and compliance with healthcare services. Tuberculosis is among the 30 communicable diseases and related conditions addressed by PAHO’s Disease Elimination Initiative.