Health & Well-being

Thousands of TB cases remain undetected in Sri Lanka: WHO

In Sri Lanka, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 14,000 new TB cases occur annually, but only 8,500–9,500 cases are currently diagnosed, leaving about 5,000 patients undetected in the community. This significant gap underscores the need for intensified efforts to combat tuberculosis in the country.

Yesterday (March 24), World Tuberculosis Day was observed globally to raise awareness about TB and promote prevention and treatment programmes. This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by Countries, Powered by People,” highlights the importance of strong country leadership, sustained commitment, and collective responsibility in eliminating TB.

In a symbolic gesture to strengthen the national fight against TB, the National Programme for Tuberculosis Control (NPTCCD) presented a special bracelet to Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni, the Secretary to the Ministry of Health, and other senior officials. The presentation, led by NPTCCD Director Dr. Pramitha Shanthilatha, reflects the government’s commitment to eliminate TB in Sri Lanka by 2035.

Under the guidance of Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, the Health and Mass Media Ministry has implemented a range of programmes at national, district, provincial, regional, and Medical Officer of Health (MOH) levels. These programmes aim to increase TB detection, strengthen public-private partnerships, reduce TB-related stigma, and enhance accountability throughout the health system.

From March 16 - 20, 2026, the Ministry declared Tuberculosis Awareness Week, during which public awareness campaigns, media conferences, and targeted programmes for high-risk groups—including health workers—were conducted at institutions such as the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID), National Hospital for Respiratory Diseases (NHRD), National Tuberculosis Laboratory (NTRL), Central Chest Hospital – Colombo (CCC), and District Chest Hospital – Gampaha.

According to the National Programme on Tuberculosis Control and Chest Diseases, 8,125 new TB cases were reported in 2025, with 5,177 males and 2,948 females. Pediatric TB detection remains low, with only 231 cases about 3% of total cases highlighting the need for enhanced child TB screening programmes.

Sri Lanka aims to reduce TB cases by 90% and TB-related deaths by 95% compared to 2015 figures, while ensuring treatment access for all patients, aligning with the World Health Organization’s TB prevention targets for 2035.

source: Daily Mirror