Scientists: Climate Change Is Worsening Tuberculosis Risk

Scientists are increasingly concerned about the impact of climate change on tuberculosis (TB), a disease that continues to affect millions worldwide. Despite ongoing efforts to control TB, experts say global warming is worsening key risk factors, making the disease harder to combat.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the link between climate change and TB, holding a special meeting in October 2024 to develop a research framework. WHO’s study focuses on three major areas: migration and displacement, food and water shortages, and disruptions to healthcare caused by extreme weather. 

Experts highlight undernutrition as a primary TB risk factor, warning that rising global temperatures will worsen food insecurity.

Research suggests that even a slight rise in air pollution significantly increases TB risk. A study found that a 10-microgram increase in PM2.5 pollution raises TB cases by 9%. Scientists also warn that extreme weather events like floods and droughts, along with worsening air quality from wildfires and dust storms, could accelerate TB transmission.

With India accounting for a quarter of global TB cases, experts stress the urgent need for health policies that address the climate-TB connection. They call for stronger measures to reduce air pollution and food insecurity, emphasizing that tackling climate change is key to controlling TB worldwide.