What is a major public health concern associated with Tuberculosis?

Antibiotic resistance is a major public health concern associated with Tuberculosis (TB) because it complicates the treatment and management of the disease. TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and it is typically treated with a course of antibiotics. However, strains of TB have developed resistance to first-line antibiotics, leading to multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB). This resistance makes the disease harder to treat, resulting in longer treatment durations, increased healthcare costs, and higher mortality rates. The global spread of antibiotic-resistant strains underscores the importance of appropriate antibiotic use and the need for ongoing public health efforts to control TB and its resistant variations, making it a significant concern for health authorities worldwide.

While obesity, high cholesterol, and asthma are relevant health issues, they are not directly linked to the public health challenges posed by TB and its treatment options. Understanding the implications of antibiotic resistance is crucial for addressing the broader impact of TB on health systems and populations.