Development Cooperation: Which Role in Combating Tuberculosis?

Despite the years go by, Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the top ten causes of death worldwide [1]. It has been estimated that in 2015 10.4 million people were diagnosed with TB worldwide, causing 1.8 million deaths. The incidence and mortality rates are significantly higher in low and middle income countries; in particular, over 90% global TB cases and deaths occur in developing countries. [2]. For these reasons, the entire healthcare communities of these countries are devoted to fighting TB, and the cooperation among various healthcare organizations play a key role in the process. The post-2015 global tuberculosis target aims to reduce TB incidence by 90% by 2035 [3]. The WHO urges the developing countries to provide integrated patient-centered care and prevention, bold policies, and supportive systems, research and innovation [3]. We believe these approaches are an effective means to achieve the goals in fighting TB, and healthcare cooperation is essential in driving these changes. But how can these goals are achieved? A rapid social and healthcare acceleration will surely bring forth challenges amongst the poor and socially excluded groups. Thus, many aspects in life, healthcare, economy and diseases are closely interwoven in fighting and eradicating TB [4].