Delhi TB Deaths Surge: Young Adults Hit Hardest

Tuberculosis has claimed over 65,000 lives in Delhi between 2005 and 2024, with a notable surge in fatalities in 2024. The most affected age bracket is young adults aged 25 to 44, accounting for 21,090 deaths, with men representing nearly 67% of this total. This demographic is followed by individuals aged 45 to 64, who recorded 20,862 deaths, showing a higher incidence among men.

Institutional deaths consistently represent a significant portion of tuberculosis fatalities, ranging from nearly 80% to 91% annually. Medical experts highlight that the rise in Multi-Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) cases contributes to increased mortality, as these strains are more challenging to treat. Factors like air pollution, malnutrition, and anemia, especially among women in lower socio-economic groups, are also identified as critical contributors to TB severity and fatality.