What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis
This is a serious infectious disease caused by bacteria that mainly affects the lungs. It can spread from person to person through the air, and while it is treatable, it remains a significant global health issue.
Overview
Tuberculosis, often referred to as TB, is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium primarily targets the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. When someone with active TB coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the bacteria can be inhaled by others, leading to new infections. The disease can remain dormant in a person's body for years without causing symptoms, known as latent TB. If the immune system weakens, latent TB can turn into active TB, leading to serious health complications. For example, a person with untreated active TB may experience severe coughing, weight loss, and fatigue, making it crucial to diagnose and treat the disease early. Tuberculosis is a major public health concern worldwide, especially in developing countries where healthcare access is limited. Efforts to control TB include vaccination, early detection, and proper treatment regimens. Understanding TB is essential as it not only affects individual health but also poses a risk to community health through its contagious nature.