Global tuberculosis report 2013

Tuberculosis remains a major global public health problem and one of the leading causes of death from an infectious disease worldwide, closely associated with poverty, HIV infection and other social determinants. This report presents a comprehensive assessment of the global tuberculosis epidemic and the response to it at global, regional and national levels, with particular focus on progress towards targets set within the Millennium Development Goals and the Stop TB Strategy as the 2015 deadline approaches.

Drawing on data reported by 197 countries and territories representing over 99% of the global burden, it examines trends in incidence, prevalence and mortality, including an estimated 8.6 million new cases and 1.3 million deaths in 2012, as well as patterns of drug-resistant tuberculosis and TB/HIV co-infection. The report describes key components of the response, including case detection and treatment outcomes, diagnostics and laboratory strengthening, financing, and research and development, and identifies priority actions to accelerate progress, such as addressing missed cases, strengthening the response to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and scaling up TB/HIV interventions. It highlights sustained progress alongside persistent challenges in coverage and funding. Intended for policymakers, programme managers and stakeholders, it underscores the need to intensify efforts, strengthen health systems and accelerate innovation to achieve global targets and advance towards ending the tuberculosis epidemic.