PCP warns public against TB misinformation

The Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) has issued a strong reminder to the public that tuberculosis (TB) is a serious bacterial infection affecting the lungs and respiratory system, which requires proper medical intervention.

This clarification came amid circulating misinformation suggesting that drinking milk can help combat TB.

In coordination with the Philippine College of Chest Physicians Council on Tuberculosis, PCP emphasized that TB is “a disease entity caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis” and is transmitted through airborne droplets between individuals.

“Active TB disease, with susceptible strains, can be cured by a combination of a four-drug regimen: isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol given over a span of six months,” the PCP said.

The group also stated that while “milk supplementation supports bone health,” it is “not an alternative to TB management.”

PCP further warned that delaying proper treatment could allow the infection to spread to other organs, potentially resulting in death.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Health (DOH) to give priority to addressing TB nationwide, as the Philippines continues to record the highest incidence of the disease in the Western Pacific Region.

According to World Bank estimates, the country has a projected TB incidence rate of 643 per 100,000 people, including both new and relapse cases each year.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization reported that there were around 739,000 new TB cases in the country in 2022, with 30,000 of those cases involving individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

To address the growing concern, the DOH has intensified its active case finding and treatment initiatives to reduce the country’s TB infection rate.