Reducing US Foreign Aid Could Lead to Millions of Additional Tuberculosis Cases and Fatalities
Cutbacks in U.S. foreign aid could lead to over 10 million new tuberculosis cases and 2.5 million deaths globally by 2030, threatening decades of progress in TB control.
Recent research highlights the severe consequences of cuts in U.S. foreign aid on global tuberculosis (TB) control efforts. The study, conducted by the Center for Modeling and Analysis, collaborating with the Stop TB Partnership and published in PLOS Global Public Health, predicts that decreasing U.S. funding could result in over 10 million new TB cases and approximately 2.5 million additional deaths across 26 high-burden countries from 2025 to 2030.
U.S. foreign aid has historically been vital for the fight against TB, contributing more than 55% of external funding for TB programs in 2024. The abrupt halt and subsequent reduction in funding during early 2025 have caused many TB initiatives worldwide to shut down, jeopardizing diagnosis, treatment, and prevention efforts, especially in managing drug-resistant TB and co-infections with HIV.
The study utilized mathematical models to assess three scenarios: a minimal impact with recovery within three months, a moderate impact with recovery within a year, and a worst-case scenario where services remain at post-disruption levels. Even under minimal disruptions, about 634,700 new cases and nearly 100,000 deaths are projected. Moderate disruptions could lead to approximately 1.66 million new cases and 268,600 deaths, while the worst-case scenario forecasts catastrophic increases with over 10.6 million cases and 2.24 million deaths.
The analysis underscores that halving the funding cuts could still result in 884,000 additional deaths, highlighting the fragile dependence of TB control programs on sustained U.S. support. While some nations might adapt to these changes, vulnerable populations will face long-lasting adverse effects. The authors emphasize the urgent need for alternative funding sources to sustain critical TB prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research initiatives aimed at ending TB by 2030.
These findings serve as a stark warning about the potential global health setbacks if international support diminishes, reinforcing the importance of continuous investment in TB control efforts worldwide.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-foreign-aid-millions-tb-cases.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Extended Diagnostic Delays for Children and Young People with Cancer Revealed by New Study
A new UK study uncovers significant delays in diagnosing cancer among children and young people, especially for certain tumor types and age groups, emphasizing the need for quicker detection efforts.
Impact of Virtual Maternity Care During COVID-19 on NHS Costs
A study from King's College London reveals that virtual maternity care during COVID-19 increased NHS costs due to more follow-up appointments, highlighting disparities among ethnic groups and underlying long-term trends.
Innovative Program Significantly Increases HIV Screening in Urgent Care and Emergency Departments
A new program at Intermountain Healthcare has dramatically increased HIV testing rates in urgent care clinics and emergency departments, leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment for more patients. Learn how education, alerts, and coordinated follow-up are transforming HIV prevention efforts.
