Myanmar marks World TB Day 2026; Dy Minister outlines fight against high TB rates

 

25 MARCH 2026

THE commemoration ceremony for World TB Day 2026 was held yesterday at the Ministry of Health’s assembly hall in Nay Pyi Taw.

In his opening address, Deputy Minister for Health Dr Aye Tun noted that 24 March is designated annually as World TB Day, with commemorations held globally, including in Myanmar. He highlighted that Myanmar remains among the 30 countries with the highest prevalence of tuberculosis (TB), TB/HIV co-infection, and drug-resistant TB. Furthermore, Myanmar has the second-highest incidence of new TB cases in the WHO South-East Asia Region; consequently, there is an urgent need to accelerate both the detection and treatment of the disease.

To combat TB, National Strategic Plans have been developed and implemented in collaboration with partner organizations. The "Double X Strategy" is currently being applied to diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the Ministry of Health has expanded the use of stool samples for TB detection and the administration of Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) for children under the age of eight.

Diagnostic efforts have been bolstered by the use of AI technology (X-ray CAD) for chest X-rays, alongside portable Truenat devices, which offer ease of transport and use. Furthermore, an Integrated TB e-Surveillance System is being implemented to manage TB control activities in real-time. In line with the 2026 theme, “Let the State Lead and the People Lead,” the Deputy Minister emphasized the necessity of a multi-sectoral approach. This involves the Ministry of Health, related ministries, social organizations, and domestic and international partners working together under government leadership, with active participation from every citizen.

The ceremony was attended by directors-general, deputy directors-general, directors, medical superintendents, and specialist doctors. Also in attendance were officials from the Myanmar Women’s Affairs Federation, the Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association, and the Myanmar Red Cross Society, as well as health workers and representatives from partner organizations. — MNA/MKKS