More than 42,000 people were infected with tuberculosis over the past seven years, according to a new report by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR).
The report shows that 42,103 people were diagnosed with tuberculosis during this period.
Tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is an infectious disease that affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits.
People who live or work closely with TB patients face a higher risk of infection. Long exposure increases the chances of catching the disease.
TB Cases Increased Over the Years
The NISR report shows that TB cases increased as the years passed.
In 2019, Rwanda recorded 5,950 TB cases.
The number dropped to 5,592 in 2020.
In 2021, cases fell further to 5,283.
However, the trend changed in 2022. That year, cases rose sharply to 7,125.
In 2023, the number increased again to 9,512.
In 2024, cases slightly decreased to 8,641.
Overall, the report confirms a general rise in TB infections over the seven-year period.
TB, HIV, and Drug Resistance
The data also highlights related health challenges.
Out of all TB patients, 339 suffered from multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. This type of TB does not respond well to standard treatment.
In addition, 5,807 TB patients were also living with HIV.
The report further shows that 660 patients did not respond properly to TB treatment. This was mainly due to poor adherence to medication.
Health experts warn that incomplete treatment increases the risk of drug resistance.
TB Death Rates Continue to Decline
Despite rising infections, TB-related deaths have decreased over time.
In 2019, TB caused 6.1 percent of deaths among infected patients.
In 2020, the rate rose slightly to 6.4 percent.
In 2021, it increased to 7.9 percent.
The situation improved in later years.
In 2022, the death rate dropped to 5.7 percent.
In 2023, it declined further to 4.8 percent.
In 2024, it reached 4.5 percent.
Efforts to Fight Tuberculosis
To reduce TB transmission, the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) has strengthened diagnosis efforts.
The TB division uses chest X-ray machines to detect lung infections. These machines are mainly used for people living with HIV. They help identify hidden TB cases early.
Rwanda also has 69 GeneXpert machines across hospitals nationwide. These machines test TB and check whether standard drugs are still effective.
Health officials say early detection and proper treatment remain key to stopping the spread of tuberculosis.
