Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif stated Pakistan’s commitment to eliminating tuberculosis (TB), a treatable and preventable disease. This pledge comes on World Tuberculosis Day observed on March 24, where he emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, universal access to quality treatment, prevention measures, and patient care.
In his message, Sharif highlighted the expansion of modern diagnostic facilities, improvement of laboratory networks, and strengthening of surveillance systems as key steps towards TB elimination. He also noted the integration of TB services into primary health centers for continuous treatment across Pakistan.
Despite progress, TB remains a significant global challenge due to its impact on poverty, malnutrition, and inequality. Sharif stressed that public participation is crucial in eliminating TB, with community health workers, civil society organizations, researchers, and private sector medical institutions playing vital roles.
However, international cooperation, technical partnerships, and sustained global funding are also essential for achieving complete TB elimination. He urged all stakeholders to strengthen collective efforts to ensure no one with TB remains untreated.