The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 1 million people died from tuberculosis in 2025, despite a decline in mortality rates. According to the WHO's annual report, the number of tuberculosis-related deaths decreased by 35% since 2015, but this progress was achieved five years behind schedule. The report highlights the slow pace of advancements and the decline in international financing, which may weaken healthcare systems in the most affected countries.
The WHO had initially aimed to reduce tuberculosis-related deaths by 75% by 2025, but this goal is now out of reach. The incidence rate, which measures the number of new cases per population, decreased by only 14% over the past decade, falling short of the expected 50% decline. Regional disparities persist, with the incidence rate decreasing by 42% in Europe and 30% in Africa, but only 6.6% in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
The WHO's Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, expressed concern about the ongoing impact of tuberculosis, stating that over 1 million people continue to die annually from a preventable and curable disease. He noted that the decline in cases and deaths is encouraging, but more efforts are needed to address the challenges posed by reduced financing. The report emphasizes that the fight against tuberculosis requires sustained support and resources.
One of the significant challenges in controlling tuberculosis is the lack of diagnosis and reporting. In 2025, 10.6 million people fell ill with tuberculosis, but only 8.4 million were diagnosed and reported to health authorities. This means that approximately 2.2 million cases went unreported due to inadequate diagnosis or notification. The WHO stresses that improving detection and reporting is crucial to effectively combat the disease.
The decline in international financing for tuberculosis control is another major concern. In 2025, international funding decreased by 14% to $940 million. While some countries increased their domestic spending, which rose by 14% to $5.6 billion, the total funding of $6.6 billion remains far below the estimated $22 billion needed annually by 2027. The WHO warns that the effects of these funding cuts may be delayed but will ultimately be felt.
The WHO's report highlights the need for sustained efforts to combat tuberculosis. The organization emphasizes that the decline in mortality rates is a positive trend, but it is not enough to meet the global targets. The report calls for increased support and resources to strengthen healthcare systems, improve diagnosis and reporting, and accelerate progress against the disease.
The consequences of inaction will be severe, as tuberculosis remains a major public health threat. The WHO's report serves as a reminder that the fight against tuberculosis requires continued commitment and investment. The organization urges governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders to work together to address the challenges posed by tuberculosis and to ensure that the global response to the disease is adequate and effective.
Key points
- WHO reports over 1 million tuberculosis deaths in 2025
- Progress against tuberculosis too slow, financing decline a major concern
- Global targets for reducing tuberculosis deaths and incidence rates not met
