Tuberculosis (TB) incidence and deaths in the Region have declined by 14% and 29% respectively in the last ten years and TB deaths. Yet differences remain between males and females within countries in the Region. Using a gender and equity lens can address these differences and help ensure that the health of both women and men are not put at risk.
Tuberculosis Incidence
Tuberculosis (TB) incidence and deaths in the Region have declined by 14% and 29% respectively in the last ten years and TB deaths (5). The sex-disaggregated data shows (a) very high rates for TB incidence (SDG target 3.3.2) for males within the Region and (b) big differences between males and females within countries in the Region (169). The Philippines for example, has the highest TB incidence among males for countries reporting and the incidence is more than twice that of women. In sixteen of the twenty-five countries reporting the TB incidence rate for males is more than twice that of females in the same country (169). Despite longstanding knowledge of such high rates among males, this has not been studied as a “serious, critical and lethal gender issue.” (171):p.3). Both men and women’s health is put at risk when a gendered approach is not taken because neither are receiving the care required.
