In October 2024, the WHO reported a resurgence of tuberculosis (TB) as the leading infectious disease killer globally, with 8.2 million new cases diagnosed in 2023—the highest since 1995. This resurgence presents uncertainties for the health sector, indicating a possible shift in funding priorities towards TB vaccine development, especially given an annual investment gap of USD 675 million. In this context, the significance of the UNWHO TB Vaccine Advocacy Roadmap is unquestionable. Businesses can address this challenge by increasing investment in TB R&D, collaborating with organisations like the WHO and participating in public-private partnerships.
Global focus
Underfunding tuberculosis: a risk health sector must address
Public-private partnerships and increased development finance are key to accelerating TB vaccine R&D
Finance
Health (all industries)
Publication date: 13 Nov 2024
By Craig Otter
AT A GLANCE
TB's resurgence and underfunded vaccine R&D present a risk that requires health sector investment and public-private partnerships.
With 1.3 million deaths yearly and a USD 675 million funding gap, investing could save up to 8.5 million lives and prevent 76 million cases.
Aligning with SASB reporting standards can support global transparency of efforts to eradicate TB.
Benefits of TB vaccine R&D
Investing in TB vaccine research offers significant economic and health returns. Each dollar invested could yield seven dollars globally over 25 years, saving up to 8.5 million lives and preventing 76 million cases. A 50% effective vaccine for adolescents and adults could avert 76 million cases and 8.5 million deaths between 2025 and 2050. Additionally, it could save USD 3.2 billion in treatment costs and ease household financial burdens by USD 41.5 billion, significantly benefiting the poorest 40% of the population.
Industry engagement with WHO
Industry collaboration with the WHO is crucial for accelerating TB vaccine development. Partnerships can enhance research efficiency and ensure equitable vaccine access. Despite 16 candidate TB vaccines in trials, progress is hindered by insufficient funding and limited industry involvement. Annual investments average USD 115 million, far below the required USD 790 million. Companies also face financial risks from product safety issues.
TB vaccines in Global South
Developing TB vaccines is vital for the Global South, where South-East Asia and Africa account for 45% and 24% of cases respectively. Focused efforts in these high-burden regions are essential. In early 2024, Johannesburg administered the first doses of a promising new TB vaccine, marking a significant milestone in the fight against TB in the most affected regions. Organisations like Abbott and Aspen Pharmacare are improving laboratories and providing affordable treatments for multi-drug-resistant TB across over 20 low- and middle-income countries.
Investing to end TB
Investing in TB vaccine research, fostering industry partnerships and targeting high-burden regions align with global sustainability goals on access to medicines and affordability. By adhering to guidelines like the SASB's Access to Medicines and Affordability & Pricing standards, reporting entities can demonstrate commitment to addressing priority diseases. Transparent reporting of efforts to improve healthcare access can help eradicate TB and enhance financial performance.
FURTHER READING
- Global tuberculosis report 2024 (UN WHO)
- We urgently need new TB vaccines to end TB (Stop TB Partnership)
- Tuberculosis resurges as top infectious disease killer (UN WHO)