World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB) and to strengthen efforts aimed at eradicating the disease globally. The day highlights the importance of TB diagnosis, treatment and control, while also emphasizing the disease’s impact on public health, social life and the economy. It aims to promote national and international cooperation to prevent TB, ensure early detection and improve access to treatment, as tuberculosis remains a significant global public health challenge.

History

Tuberculosis is one of the oldest known diseases in human history. Hippocrates described it as “phthisis” (wasting, consumption), and the disease has affected societies for centuries. The existence of the TB-causing microbe was proven by the German physician Robert Koch on March 24, 1882. This discovery laid the scientific foundation for diagnosing and treating tuberculosis and is considered a turning point in the fight against the disease.

Following the recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO), March 24 was officially designated as World Tuberculosis Day in 1996, in honor of Koch’s microbiological discovery. Each year, events are organized on this day to increase awareness about TB and to support prevention and treatment efforts.

Global Strategies

Today, tuberculosis remains one of the leading infectious causes of death worldwide and is recognized as a global public health problem. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) include ending the TB epidemic by 2030.

In line with this target, the End TB strategy developed by WHO and approved by the World Health Assembly in 2014, aims for a 90% decrease in TB deaths and an 80% decrease in TB incidence by 2030 compared to 2015 data, and to eliminate the economic burden of the disease on families. The strategy emphasizes not only medical treatment but also social and economic support for TB patients, strengthening access to healthcare and raising awareness across communities. World Tuberculosis Day serves as a symbol of global solidarity in achieving these goals.

Tuberculosis Control and Practices in Türkiye

Türkiye has long implemented systematic TB control measures. In 2006, the Ministry of Health introduced the Directly Observed Treatment Strategy (DOTS) to improve patient adherence to treatment. Under this strategy, patients take medications under supervision and treatment progress is recorded.

Since the implementation of DOTS, significant progress has been made in TB control in Türkiye. According to the Turkish Public Health Institution, TB incidence rates have steadily declined, with an average annual reduction of 6–7% in new cases since the early 2000s. The Ministry of Health continues TB elimination efforts in collaboration with national and international organizations, public institutions, private sector partners, NGOs and volunteer organizations. In 2017, a conditional cash assistance program was launched in cooperation with the Ministry of Family and Social Services to support patients suffering financial losses due to TB, facilitating continued treatment and reducing economic hardship. Organizations such as the Turkish Respiratory Society actively contribute to public awareness and TB prevention initiatives.

Themes

Each year, World Tuberculosis Day is marked with a specific theme to raise awareness and promote global solidarity. These themes highlight commitment, investment, leadership and social responsibility in ending TB. For instance, the 2018 theme was “Wanted: Leaders for a TB-Free World,” and the 2025 theme is “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver.” These themes remind individuals, institutions and governments of their shared responsibility in eliminating TB worldwide.