Peng Liyuan Urges Global Action to Combat Tuberculosis Ahead of World TB Day

Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping and the World Health Organization (WHO) Goodwill Ambassador for Tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS, recently issued a compelling call for active international support and participation in global efforts to prevent and treat tuberculosis. Her remarks were delivered in a written statement for the virtual meeting commemorating WHO World TB Day 2026, observed annually on March 24th. World Tuberculosis Day 2026, themed 'Yes! We can End TB! Led by countries, powered by people,' serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing global health challenge posed by TB. This theme underscores the necessity of decisive national leadership, increased domestic and international investment, rapid adoption of new WHO recommendations, accelerated action, and robust multisectoral collaboration to eradicate the disease. Peng Liyuan emphasized that it is entirely possible to get back on track and turn the tide against the TB epidemic, even amidst a challenging global environment. In her statement, Peng Liyuan acknowledged the significant work undertaken by the WHO and the international community in safeguarding human health and pursuing the goal of ending the TB epidemic. She noted that these concerted efforts have successfully reversed a recent upward trend in global TB cases. Despite progress, tuberculosis remains one of the world's deadliest infectious diseases, with millions falling ill and over a million succumbing to it annually. Global efforts have reportedly saved approximately 75 million lives since 2000, showcasing the impact of sustained action. Highlighting China's commitment to combating TB, Peng Liyuan detailed the government's strong emphasis on prevention and treatment. She explained that China has coordinated multiple government departments to implement comprehensive response measures and has actively leveraged scientific and technological innovation to accelerate advancements in TB prevention and treatment technologies. This strategic approach has continuously elevated the standard of TB care in the country. Furthermore, China's expansive healthcare network, which serves over 1.4 billion urban and rural residents, has significantly improved access to TB prevention and treatment services, leading to a sustained decline in TB incidence and positioning China among countries with moderate to low TB prevalence. Peng Liyuan also drew attention to China's large-scale volunteer campaign for TB prevention and control, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. Over the past decade and a half, more than one million volunteers have participated, carrying out over 80,000 programs across the country. She expressed pride in witnessing their compassion, dedication, and contributions during her visits to local neighborhoods, schools, and healthcare facilities. Her call extends beyond national borders, urging people from all walks of life and all countries to join hands, support, and actively participate in global efforts against TB. She advocated for sharing warmth and care, building confidence and hope, to ensure that advancements in TB response benefit all humanity and contribute to building a global community of health for all. Peng Liyuan was first appointed as the WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS in 2011 by then Director-General Margaret Chan, a role that was renewed in 2017. Her consistent advocacy for a stronger global response to these diseases has been a fixture at major international events for over a decade. The ongoing fight against TB also necessitates addressing its underlying social, economic, and structural inequities, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. A comprehensive, multisectoral response, backed by strong accountability mechanisms, is crucial for success. India, carrying a significant global burden of TB, stands to gain immensely from such unified international action and increased investment in research, diagnostics, and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Read Full Story on Quick Digest