Yes, we have the power to end TB!

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Research
• Global Health Initiatives

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) eradication efforts face challenges due to uneven progress and persistent issues.
• The End TB Strategy emphasizes developing new technologies by 2025 to accelerate TB incidence reduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address persistent challenges and disparities in TB research, development, and service delivery.
• To foster a cross-sectoral approach for equitable distribution of medical and programmatic innovations.
• To reaffirm the commitment to ending TB globally through collaborative action.

Main Methods:

• A Round Table discussion was convened on World TB Day 2023, involving SEAR Union, TB Alliance, NIAS, and OSPF.
• The discussion focused on the theme: "YES, WE HAVE THE POWER TO END TB!"
• Key areas for collaborative effort were identified, including R&D, access to services, prevention, surveillance, and stigma reduction.

Main Results:

• The discussion highlighted the possibility of achieving the goal to end TB.
• Commitment was made to collaborative efforts focusing on patient-centered approaches.
• Advocacy for strengthened TB service access, control, prevention, surveillance, and R&D investment was declared.

Conclusions:

• Overcoming existing difficulties and discrepancies in TB research and development is a priority.
• Integrating patient voices and reducing stigma are essential components of the strategy.
• The Round Table serves as a framework to ensure the achievability of ending TB.