Integrated approach to tuberculosis and lung health: policy brief

This policy brief examines the rationale, opportunities and strategic considerations for implementing an integrated approach to tuberculosis (TB) and lung health within health systems. Grounded in the WHO Framework on integrated, people-centred health services and aligned with the End TB Strategy, the document highlights the growing global burden of TB and other communicable and noncommunicable lung diseases, emphasizing their shared risk factors, overlapping clinical presentations and interconnected social determinants. It analyses the bidirectional relationships between TB and chronic respiratory conditions, respiratory infections, environmental and occupational exposures, antimicrobial resistance, and post-TB lung disease, while underscoring the need for coordinated and equitable models of care.

The document reviews existing experiences with integrated approaches, including the Practical Approach to Lung Health, and identifies persistent implementation gaps related to governance, financing, service coordination and health system capacity. It outlines strategic actions to strengthen integrated, people-centred responses through primary health care, multisectoral collaboration, improved surveillance, community engagement and enhanced diagnostic and referral systems. The document is intended to support policy-makers, programme managers and implementers in advancing sustainable and resilient approaches to TB and lung health, particularly in resource-constrained settings.