Community Engagement in the Fight Against Tuberculosis: A Global Priority

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, particularly in low-resource settings. Despite advancements in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, the disease's eradication continues to face significant challenges. Community engagement is a vital yet underutilized strategy in TB control, offering the potential to tailor global initiatives to local contexts for greater impact. This editorial highlights the essential roles of communities in raising awareness, reducing stigma, supporting early diagnosis, and improving treatment adherence. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of capacity-building initiatives such as community health committees, which foster collaboration between health systems and local populations. By prioritizing community involvement, global TB strategies can achieve more sustainable outcomes and accelerate progress toward eradicating the disease.