Tuberculosis (TB) is a pervasive threat, silently impacting over 2.7 million individuals in India. During discussions at the India Today Conclave in Mumbai, experts shed light on the disease’s alarming rise and the emergence of drug-resistant TB in the country.

Dr. Lancelot Pinto, Consultant Pulmonologist at P.D. Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, emphasized a prevalent misconception about TB. He noted that many people wrongly believe it couldn’t affect them, assuming it’s confined to marginalized and impoverished communities. Dr. Pinto clarified that while a significant portion of cases do occur in these demographics, various predisposing factors can lead to TB, including lifestyle disorders such as diabetes, lung issues, and kidney-related ailments. Smoking, in particular, elevates the risk, with approximately 10% of Indians having a history of tobacco use.

He underscored that about 40 per cent of the people in India have symptoms of TB. Out of these 40 per cent of people, this disease also makes 5 per cent of people its victims.

Here are some lifestyle changes that can help individuals lower their chances of contracting TB:

1. Maintain Good Hygiene: Practicing proper hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and water, can prevent the spread of TB bacteria.

2. Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc, can boost the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.

3. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity improves lung function and overall health, making the body more resistant to infections like TB.

4. Adequate Sleep: Getting enough restorative sleep is essential for a strong immune system. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

5. Stress Management: Chronic stress weakens the immune system. Practising stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be beneficial.

6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk of TB. Limiting or quitting smoking and minimizing alcohol consumption can improve lung health.

7. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or underweight can weaken the immune system. Strive to maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise.

8. Avoid Close Contact with TB Patients: If you are in close contact with someone diagnosed with TB, take precautions to minimize exposure, such as wearing a mask and maintaining good ventilation.

9. Vaccination: Ensure that you and your family members are up to date with vaccinations, including the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, which provides some protection against TB.

10. Medical Check-ups: Regular health check-ups can help identify any underlying health conditions that may increase the risk of TB, such as diabetes, and allow for timely management.

11. Follow Public Health Guidelines: Stay informed about public health guidelines and recommendations regarding TB prevention, and adhere to them.

Remember that TB is primarily spread through the air when an infectious person coughs or sneezes. Reducing the risk of TB involves not only personal lifestyle changes but also awareness of the disease and its prevention strategies within the community.

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