Experts warn that funding cuts could reverse progress in treatment and testing<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n
By I. Edwards HealthDay Reporter<\/b>
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THURSDAY, Nov. 13, 2025 (HealthDay News) \u2014 Global tuberculosis<\/a> (TB) cases climbed again last year, reaching their highest level on record, according to new data from the World Health Organization (WHO).<\/p>\n The agency reported 8.3 million new TB cases worldwide in 2024, surpassing a record set the previous year. That figure represents about 78% of all estimated infections, meaning many people with the disease still go undiagnosed.<\/p>\n Despite the rising number of infections, TB-related deaths declined slightly: 1.23 million deaths in 2024, down from 1.25 million in 2023.<\/p>\n The increase in diagnosed cases may reflect progress after disruptions during the COVID pandemic, according to the WHO\u2019s annual report, which includes data from 184 countries.<\/p>\n In the United States, TB cases also rose for a second consecutive year, reaching their highest level in more than 12 years, The Associated Press<\/em> reported. Most cases in the U.S. occur among people born outside the country, data shows.<\/p>\n TB is caused by bacteria that attack the lungs. It is spread through the air when someone with an active infection coughs or sneezes. Although about a quarter of the world\u2019s population carries the bacteria, only a small fraction become sick.<\/p>\n Without treatment, TB can be deadly and remains one of the top causes of death worldwide.<\/p>\n The WHO warned that funding to fight TB has stalled, raising concerns that recent budget cuts in the U.S. could slow progress.<\/p>\n More information<\/strong><\/p>\n The Mayo Clinic has more on tuberculosis<\/a>.<\/p>\n