To be with TB: the global problem of tuberculosis and how it affects human rights.

Abstract

Tuberculosis continues to have a significant impact on global health, despite a decline in incidence in some developing countries throughout the world in the past few years. This article first provides an overview of this problem in terms of global prevalence and incidence and related prevention and treatment strategies. The second section outlines some of the challenges this presents in terms of human rights issues for individuals (those with the disease and those caring for them) and communities. The picture that emerges is that of a serious global problem that can nevertheless be improved with action on prevention and treatment that respects and promotes human rights.