New Delhi: Doctors have called for sustained, coordinated action to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) in India, warning that the disease continues to impact not just lungs but also fertility, vitality and overall health.India remains among the countries with the highest TB burden globally, with over 27 lakh cases reported in 2024, according to available data. Experts say that despite government initiatives and awareness programmes, the battle is far from over and requires continued commitment from both authorities and communities.
Highlighting ground realities, clinicians noted that TB cases continue to be reported even in urban centres. At Aakash Healthcare, for instance, a total of 921 TB cases were recorded between 2016 and 2026, including 514 men and 407 women.
“TB is more than just a medical condition. Social determinants, stigma and delayed diagnosis make it more challenging to treat,” said Dr Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director, Aakash Healthcare. He stressed that timely diagnosis remains critical as awareness levels are still inadequate.
Doctors also flagged delayed healthcare-seeking behaviour among patients.
“People often ignore symptoms like persistent cough, fever and weight loss, assuming it to be a seasonal viral infection. This delays diagnosis and treatment until the disease becomes advanced,” said Dr Manav Manchanda, Director and Head, Respiratory, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Asian Hospital.
Concerns were also raised about drug-resistant TB, which complicates treatment.
“Drug-resistant TB requires longer treatment and stronger medication, leading to higher costs and side effects. It is preventable if patients complete their full course and follow medical advice,” said Dr Sushrut Ganpule, Consultant, Pulmonology, Jupiter Hospital.
Experts further underlined that TB can have serious implications beyond respiratory health.
“While commonly seen as a lung infection, TB can affect women’s reproductive health. Genital TB can damage the uterine lining and block fallopian tubes, impacting fertility. However, it can be managed with anti-tuberculosis treatment followed by IVF,” said Dr Hrishikesh Pai, Consultant Gynaecologist and IVF Specialist, associated with Lilavati Hospital Mumbai and Fortis Hospitals in Delhi and Chandigarh.
Similarly, the disease can affect men’s health.
“TB can significantly impact a man’s vitality, sex drive and fertility due to chronic illness, weight loss and stress,” said Dr Vineet Malhotra, Principal Consultant, Urology, Sexology, Andrology and Infertility Treatment, SCM Healthcare.
While India has made progress in testing and reporting, experts cautioned that without sustained government funding, leadership and strong community participation, efforts to eliminate TB could lose momentum.
“Eliminating TB will require a team effort—doctors, patients, communities and policymakers working together. Every missed case or incomplete treatment keeps the cycle alive. We have the tools; what we need is sustained action and commitment,” Dr Chaudhry said.
Calling for greater awareness at the grassroots level, doctors emphasised the role of community engagement.
“Awareness camps, nutrition programmes and efforts to reduce stigma can encourage patients to seek timely treatment. Families and communities play a crucial role in ensuring patients complete their treatment,” Dr Pai added.
Doctors reiterated that TB remains not just a medical challenge but also a social issue in a country as vast as India, and sustained efforts are essential to end the disease.
