Tuberculosis (TB) is the oldest known disease, but it continues to be beset by myths and misconceptions. Misconceptions about TB can result in fear, stigma, and undue delay in treatment, which, in turn, makes the disease even more difficult to control. World Tuberculosis Day, observed every year on March 24 works towards raising awareness about the disease. In this article, we will dispel five common myths regarding TB.
Myth 1: Tuberculosis only affects the lungs.
Reality: TB can involve various areas of the body.
Most people think that TB is only a lung disease. Although pulmonary TB (involving the lungs) is the most frequent, extrapulmonary TB can involve other organs such as the brain, spine, kidneys, and even bones. TB meningitis, for instance, can result in serious complications in the brain, while spinal TB (Pott’s disease) can result in deformities and loss of mobility. Recognising that TB is not only found in the lungs is essential to enable early detection and effective treatment.
Myth 2: TB is a genetic disease.
Reality: TB is an infectious disease, not hereditary.
Some people believe that TB runs in families and is passed down genetically. While it is true that multiple members of a family may get TB, this is because the disease is spread through the air, not through genes. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, the bacteria can be inhaled by others, leading to infection. This is why early diagnosis, isolation, and treatment are essential in preventing the spread within households.
Myth 3: TB is a disease of the past.
Fact: TB is a significant global health issue.
TB has existed for centuries and treatments exist, yet it is still one of the most lethal infectious diseases globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that TB killed approximately 1.3-1.4 million people in 2022.
India bears the largest burden of TB in the world, with millions of cases reported every year. The development of drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB and XDR-TB) has further increased the difficulty in combating TB. This is evidence that TB continues to be a contemporary health crisis that needs immediate attention.
Myth 4: Quail eggs cure TB.
Reality: There is no scientific proof that quail eggs cure TB.
One of the most common myths states that having quail eggs can cure TB because they are very nutritious. However, Voomika Mukherjee, Health & Nutrition Life Coach, Ney Delhi says “Although quail eggs are a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, they have no anti-TB content. TB is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, which can be treated and cured by the right antibiotic treatment (e.g., Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Ethambutol, and Pyrazinamide). Waiting for unproven treatments like quail eggs postpones medical care and worsens the disease. The only scientifically established method to cure TB is by a complete regimen of TB medication administered by a physician.”
Myth 5: TB cannot be cured.
Fact: TB is entirely curable if treated effectively.
Most individuals think that TB is a lifetime illness and cannot be fully cured. However, Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS), a TB treatment scheme is very effective. Patients must adhere strictly to the given 6-month or longer course of antibiotics to kill the bacteria, Mycobacterium, from their bodies entirely.
The key reason why TB remains is non-compliance with treatment—when patients discontinue the drugs as soon as they start feeling better, with the result that drug-resistant TB emerges. On strict compliance with drugs, TB is fully curable.
Conclusion
Misinformation regarding TB can have severe implications, ranging from stigma to delayed treatment and acceleration of the disease. Knowing the facts regarding TB is vital for good prevention and control. TB is not inherited. It is not exclusive to the lungs. Also, it is not an olden-day disease. It is a preventable but treatable infectious illness that needs timely medical treatment. Trusting in pseudoscientific treatments such as quail eggs can prove fatal, while adequate TB treatment is the only known cure. Through the dissipation of such myths and spreading awareness, we can get closer to the goal of eradicating TB.
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