As the clock ticks towards 2025, BRICS countries are set to deepen their health-focused cooperation, focusing on ending TB, which accounts for over half of the world’s reported cases. This effort marks a paradigm shift in how these emerging economies approach global health challenges.
Why TB Matters
Every year, 10 million people fall ill with TB, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Although preventable and curable, TB remains the deadliest infectious disease. In 2023, WHO reported 1.25 million deaths from TB. More than half of patients live in low- and middle-income countries, especially India, Indonesia, the Chinese mainland, the Philippines and Pakistan.
BRICS: From Research to Reality
During the 18th meeting of the BRICS Tuberculosis Research Network in May, experts shared breakthroughs in diagnostics, vaccines and treatments. Participants agreed to join forces to accelerate new vaccine development and fast-track treatment options.
Resource mobilization emerged as both an opportunity and a challenge. Funding for TB services dipped from $6.8 billion in 2019 to $5.7 billion in 2023just 26% of the global target. BRICS members are exploring innovative financing models to bridge this gap.
Building a Healthier Future
By bringing together governments, research labs and civil society, BRICS aims to reshape global health cooperation and set a new standard for tackling infectious diseases. Their collaborative approach could pave the way to making TB a thing of the past by 2035if funding, technology and political will align.
Takeaway
The BRICS TB initiative shows that when emerging economies unite around a shared goal, real progress is possible. As these countries ramp up operations in 2025, the world will be watching—and thousands could be breathing easier.
Reference(s):
BRICS reshape paradigm for global health cooperation in ending TB
cgtn.com
