In a determined effort to combat tuberculosis (TB), Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital held a TB awareness rally on February 11, 2025, aiming to educate the public about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of this infectious disease. The rally, which began at the entrance of the University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS) and concluded at Gate Number Eight near the Directly Observed Treatment (DOT) center, saw active participation from medical professionals, students, and health advocates.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Amita Suneja, Principal of UCMS, emphasised the urgent need to spread awareness about TB so that people can recognize its symptoms early and seek timely treatment at DOT centers. She lauded the government's extensive efforts in making TB treatment accessible and stressed that eliminating the disease is possible with the right approach and persistent efforts. She also highlighted the crucial role of contact tracing, which helps in identifying and diagnosing cases by tracking individuals who may have been exposed to an infected person.

Dr. Punita from the TB DOT Center shed light on the warning signs of TB, cautioning that a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, continuous evening fever, unexplained weight loss, and excessive night sweats could be indicators of the disease. She added that chest pain and breathlessness should not be ignored, as they could point to pulmonary TB.

While discussing the nature of TB infections, Dr. Punita explained that nearly 80% of cases affect the lungs, while the remaining involve extra-pulmonary TB, which can impact other organs. She also drew attention to high-risk groups, warning that individuals with weakened immune systems—including senior citizens, diabetics, undernourished individuals, pregnant women, and those battling comorbidities like HIV—are particularly vulnerable. Drug users, alcoholics, and those with low body mass index (BMI) are also at a greater risk and should undergo regular screening.

The rally served as a powerful reminder that early detection and timely treatment remain the most effective weapons against TB. With increased awareness and proactive healthcare initiatives, the fight against this life-threatening disease can gain stronger momentum, bringing India a step closer to its goal of TB elimination.