Tuberculosis (TB), once thought to be a thing of the past in developed countries, has regained its status as the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent. According to 2023 data, TB claimed over 1.25 million lives worldwide, surpassing COVID-19’s three-year reign.
In regions with underdeveloped healthcare systems, TB remains prevalent, often claiming lives that could be saved with proper care and resources. The disease is completely curable when treated, but disruptions in treatment can lead to the development of drug resistance, making future treatment options more difficult and costly.
The recent federal freeze on aid has had devastating effects, including a 30% increase in new TB infections due to the termination of research consortiums and funding cuts. This will put additional pressure on healthcare systems worldwide, particularly those already struggling to combat other diseases like malaria and polio.
The impact of this crisis extends beyond global health, affecting economies and public health through travel and trade. Utah’s unique specialties in healthcare and life sciences make it an attractive location for experts to participate in global health responses.
In response to the growing threat, the University of Utah has been named a U.S.-based academic partner in a multinational consortium aiming to improve infectious disease detection and surveillance across the globe. The university is also home to a CDC-funded Prevention Epicenter centered around antibiotic resistance and microbial threats.
The U.S. invests in global health initiatives to prevent, detect, and manage infectious disease threats because it’s an economical way to save lives and protect Americans. Supporting these initiatives is not just an act of compassion but a strategic investment in our own future.
As Utahns, we must recognize that our health and well-being are linked to the health of the world. We must continue to support global health initiatives and foreign aid to ensure that no one falls victim to diseases like TB, which can have severe consequences for individuals and communities worldwide.
Source: https://www.sltrib.com/opinion/commentary/2025/03/13/voices-slashes-public-health