By Rachel Walker
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has revealed that the island nation of Kiribati has the highest number of tuberculosis (TB) cases in the Pacific, with 596.
This remark came after the organisation conducted a disease survey in the month of March across the region.
In a statement, UNDP explained that the small island has a significant TB burden due to a combination of factors.
These include high rates of diabetes, poverty and overcrowding, which contribute to increased transmission.
Silent killer for developing nations
UNDP also emphasised that aside from the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), TB is another “silent killer” that continues to ravage marginalised developing nations.
“While the fight against HIV has made headlines, and despite advancements in global health, TB is also a major public health concern that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations in the Pacific region,” the report stated.
However, the group reaffirmed its commitment to working with the territories’ Ministries of Health and governments to address this challenge front on.
“The UNDP strives to achieve the targets set forth in the World Health Organisation’s 2030 END TB Strategy.”
“It is important that we address these inequities with urgency and care, as the statistics are alarming.”
“The UNDP admits that the fight against TB is far from over, but with innovative solutions and collective action, we can turn the tide and save countless lives. We also have support with Global Fund,” it added.
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Climate-threatened archipelago
Kiribati, a climate-threatened archipelago home to some 130,000 people, lays claim to an ocean expanse that forms one of the largest exclusive economic zones in the world.
Of its 33 islands, only 20 are inhabited.
Droughts and flooding have left the region struggling to maintain access to clean water, which has created the perfect conditions for diseases like tuberculosis to thrive.
Poor nutrition and poverty in the country have further exacerbated these health issues.
More than 25% of adults older than 24 in Kiribati have Type 2 Diabetes.
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Jheruleene Anne Ramos 
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