Fast Facts About Tuberculosis

1. Data suggest TB became common in the human population about 10,000 years ago when stable social networks of 200 to 400 people were established.

2. Tuberculosis is a disease also known as consumption, wasting disease, and the white plague.

3. Until the mid-1800s, people thought that tuberculosis, or TB, was hereditary.

4. A staggering 1.9 million people around the world die from tuberculosis each year and more than 1.9 billion are infected and are at risk of developing active tuberculosis.

5. After a peak in 1992, the incidence of tuberculosis in the United States has declined each year.

6. Generally symptoms and signs such as fatigue, anorexia, weight loss, and persistent low-grade fever occur with any body part that is infected with tuberculosis.

7. The standard treatment for tuberculosis that is not resistant to medication is a 6-month regimen consisting of four drugs given for two months, followed by two drugs given for 4 months.

8. The two most important drugs given through the 6-month course of therapy are isoniazid and rifampin.

9. If a person has symptoms of TB and has been to a part to a part of the world where TB is common, a physician should test him or her for tuberculosis.

10. Early detection and treatment are the best methods to remain healthy. When treated 90% of Tuberculosis cases can be cured. Left untreated active tuberculosis can be fatal killing 60% of patients.