Tuberculosis and Pollution

Tuberculosis (TB) is a global health issue worsened by pollution. Air pollution, including particulate matter and gases like nitrogen dioxide and ozoneleads to lung inflammation, which further increases the risk of TB. Water pollution from industrial waste and runoff introduces heavy metals which lead to impaired immunity, thus further complicating TB treatment. Occupational exposure to pollutants like silica dust further increases the risk of TB infection. Pollution also fosters antimicrobial resistance, making TB harder to treat. Vulnerable populations—urban residents, low-income communities, and high-risk workers—bear the greatest burden. Addressing TB and pollution requires stricter pollution controls, clean energy promotion, better sanitation, and global cooperation for sustainable health solutions.