ISLAMABAD — Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan commitment to eliminating tuberculosis (TB) as a national public health priority, stressing that comprehensive measures are being implemented to combat the disease effectively. His remarks came on the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day, observed on March 24.
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The prime minister outlined a multi-pronged strategy focusing on early diagnosis, universal access to quality treatment, disease prevention, and patient care. He noted that the government is expanding modern diagnostic facilities, improving laboratory networks, and strengthening surveillance systems. TB services are also being integrated into primary health centers nationwide to ensure continuous treatment and care.
Pakistan is continuing its commitment to reducing Tuberculosis transmission, preventing drug resistance, and ensuring complete treatment and cure for every patient#News #RadioPakistan https://t.co/yodAwl9fVF
— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) March 24, 2026
“Even today, TB remains one of the leading infectious diseases and a serious health, social, and economic challenge for many countries, including Pakistan,” Shehbaz Sharif said. He emphasized that the disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbating poverty, malnutrition, and social inequality.
The prime minister called for active public participation, highlighting the role of community health workers, civil society organizations, researchers, and private medical institutions in eliminating stigma, promoting timely diagnosis, and ensuring treatment continuity.
He also stressed the importance of international cooperation, technical partnerships, and sustained global funding to achieve the complete elimination of TB. Shehbaz Sharif appealed to all relevant stakeholders—including federal and provincial governments, development partners, universities, the private sector, media, and social leaders—to strengthen collective efforts and ensure that no individual with TB is left untreated.
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“Today, on World Tuberculosis Day, Pakistan, together with the international community, reaffirms its commitment to completely eliminate the treatable and preventable disease of tuberculosis,” he added, underscoring the urgency of ongoing efforts.