PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a message celebrating World Tuberculosis Day on 24 March 2023, under the theme "Yes! We can end TB." The Prime Minister said that in the past few years, Cambodia has fought hard against tuberculosis and is doing much better compared to 20 years ago, when the Kingdom had one of the highest TB rates in the world.

According to the World Health Organization, about 10 million people are infected with TB each year. In 2021, there were an estimated 10.6 million cases of TB infections globally, about 1.4 million of which were fatal. When left untreated, tuberculosis has a 50% mortality rate.

"In a short time, Cambodia has become a model country for the world in how to actively and effectively eradicate tuberculosis," noted the Prime Minister.

Worldwide, Cambodia has had the largest decrease in TB mortality rates which were reduced by 20% in 2021 when compared to 2000. The number of TB cases also dropped by 50% from 579 cases to 288.

The Prime Minister stated that this remarkable achievement was a result of the joint efforts of both the nation and the Royal Government. The country has expanded the Directly Observed Therapy or DOT screening and treatment services in all referral hospitals, health centers and health posts at the community level.

He went on to say, "Cambodia's progress towards eradicating TB is something very few countries have achieved."

The Prime Minister acknowledged that Cambodia still has a high number of TB cases compared to some other countries and that there are still many patients who have not received treatment services. In order to combat this, he advised more proactive decisions in promoting care services and increasing research and treatment options. He noted that it is crucial to ensure that patients receive timely treatment.

The Prime Minister finished by saying, "If the people are well-off, it will lead to a better life. There is potential to increase knowledge and productivity, which will lead to prosperity. Cambodia's continued economic growth depends on the health and well-being of its citizens, especially the young people, who are the country's future."