By SEPKOLIN WALNE
The National Capital District (NCD) has 8,081 TB cases, the highest in Papua New Guinea, according to the National Department of Health(NDoH).
Morobe Province is next with 6,366 cases, the department announced today to mark World TB Day.
“World TB Day (March 24) reminds us that TB is preventable and curable. In PNG, TB is a major issue, but collective action by government, partners, communities, and individuals can make a difference,” NDoH said.
“Investing in TB control saves lives, protects families, and strengthens the country. Every kina spent yields high returns by reducing medical costs, maintaining employment, and preventing poverty.”
Deputy Health Secretary Dr Penial Boas said TB remained one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases.
He said the World Health Organization estimated that 10.7 million people were infected in 2024 and more than 1.2 million people died.
“Papua New Guinea continues to face a heavy TB burden and remains among the high-burden countries in the Western Pacific Region,” Dr Boas said.
He said 51,333 TB cases were diagnosed in PNG, including 723 cases of multidrug-resistant TB, and recorded 1,380 deaths.
He added that the National TB Notification Data highlighted the scale of TB infections in PNG.
“Between 146 and 247 people develop TB each day,” Dr Boas said.
“Around 140 people are diagnosed and started on treatment daily. Of those treated, approximately 92 complete treatment or are cured.
“Between 4 and 15 Papua New Guineans die from TB each day, with only about 3 deaths officially reported,” Dr Boas said.
He urged Government leaders and development partners that their continued commitments to preventing the spread of TB was essential.
“This includes securing, managing, and reinforcing implementation at the district level while upholding accountability for results.
“Focus on promoting health in schools, villages, marketplaces, and communities to reduce the spread of TB,” Dr Boas said.