THE continued rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases in Malaysia signals that this long-standing infectious disease remains a serious public health issue. As a medical practitioner, I wish to emphasise that early detection is key.
Individuals who experience a cough lasting more than two weeks, prolonged low-grade fever in the evenings, night sweats, unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue should seek medical examination without delay.
TB is curable with proper medication, but treatment must be completed in full. Failure to adhere strictly to the prescribed regimen may lead to drug-resistant TB, which is far more complex and costly to manage.
At the policy level, the authorities need to enhance screening programmes, particularly in high-risk areas and among vulnerable groups. Proactive case detection, contact tracing and follow-up monitoring must be strengthened.
Greater coordination between public health clinics, hospitals and community health teams is essential to ensure no patient falls through the cracks.
Public education also undertakes a vital role. Stigma encasing TB cases must be removed so that individuals will not be afraid or embarrassed to seek testing and treatment.
Community leaders, employers and educational institutions should support awareness efforts and encourage those undergoing treatment to comply fully with medical advice.
TB control is closely linked to broader socioeconomic factors such as overcrowded living conditions, poor ventilation, malnutrition and limited access to healthcare. Addressing these structural issues is equally important in curbing transmission in the long term.
Malaysia has the expertise and healthcare infrastructure to manage TB effectively. What we need now is sustained vigilance, responsible public behaviour and stronger preventive strategies.
Based on a media statement by the Health Ministry dated Feb 21, a total of 3,161 TB cases have been detected nationwide, including 596 new infections. These figures should not be viewed lightly.
While TB does not spread as aggressively as Covid-19, it remains an airborne disease transmitted through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Without timely diagnosis and proper treatment, it can silently spread within families and communities.
DATUK DR MAH HANG SOON
MCA deputy president
