Tamil Nadu remains firmly committed to intensifying tuberculosis screening efforts for early detection and prompt treatment initiation, thereby reducing TB-related mortality, Health Minister K.G. Arunraj said.
He participated in a virtual meeting, which was chaired by Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare J.P. Nadda, to review the TB elimination programme on Friday. In a social media post, the Minister said that as per 2024 data, the national TB incidence and mortality rate stood at 187 and 21 per 1,00,000 population respectively, while Tamil Nadu’s incidence and mortality rates are 171 and 22 per 1,00,000 population.
Dr. Arunraj appealed to the public to visit their nearest Primary Health Centre or government hospital for screening if they experienced symptoms of persistent cough, fever, weight loss and loss of appetite. All government hospitals were fully equipped to diagnose TB early and provide treatment.
Healthcare is a collective movement, he said, adding that they will continue to work together with all stakeholders towards achieving a TB-free Tamil Nadu. Health Secretary Darez Ahamed and Mission Director of National Health Mission, Tamil Nadu Aneesh Sekhar were present.
Published – June 21, 2026 01:19 am IST
