Turks and Caicos Islands Commemorate PAHO World Tuberculosis Day 2025

“Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver.”

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 25^th March 2025 – On March 24th, 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands joined the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and global community to commemorate World Tuberculosis Day under the empowering theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver.” This day marked our continued commitment towards eliminating tuberculosis (TB), a preventable and curable disease, within our nation and across the region of the Americas.

Tuberculosis is an infectious bacterial disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. It spreads through the air when infected persons cough, sneeze, or speak. Symptoms include prolonged cough, chest pain, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. TB is treatable with a rigorous course of antibiotics administered over several months.

According to recent PAHO data, tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge in the Americas, with approximately 342,000 new cases detected in 2023. 35,000 people have lost their lives to this disease and 76,000 cases were undiagnosed and untreated. Within the Caribbean, nearly 8,000 new cases are reported each year. While significant progress has been made, renewed efforts and strategic investments are essential to achieve the ambitious goal of ending TB by 2030.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health and Human Services emphasizes preventive measures to control the spread of TB, which include:

• Early detection and prompt medical treatment.
• Regular screenings, especially among high-risk populations.
• Proper ventilation of homes and public spaces.
• Cough etiquette (covering your cough) and regular handwashing.
• Educating the public on recognizing early signs of the disease.

Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services, shared a passionate and determined message:

“Tuberculosis, though preventable and treatable, remains a serious global health threat. Today, the Turks and Caicos Islands affirms our unwavering commitment to invest resources, raise awareness, and strengthen our healthcare services. We can and we will eliminate tuberculosis from our islands by investing wisely and delivering effective healthcare services to ensure early detection and access to care. Let us all pledge to work collaboratively towards a future where TB no longer claims lives or limits potential. Yes! Together, we can end TB.”

The Ministry urges all residents to actively participate in TB awareness and prevention activities. Together, by committing, investing, and delivering, we can ensure a healthier, safer future for everyone in the Turks and Caicos Islands.