Indian healthcare visions Whole Genome Sequencing as a promising tool to manage the complexities of TB

The Indian healthcare sector sees Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) as a promising tool against tuberculosis (TB), a major global health threat. TB ranks 13th globally in fatalities and second among infectious agents after COVID-19.

WGS is revolutionary for addressing drug-resistant TB complexities by analyzing TB bacteria's entire genetic code and pinpointing genetic mutations linked to drug resistance. This information tailors personalized treatment regimens, optimizes outcomes, and reduces resistance risk.

On World TB Day, themed "Yes! We can end TB," India faces a surge in drug-resistant cases, recording 450 thousand new multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) cases in 2022, with nearly six per cent as extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB). This emphasizes the need for innovative TB approaches.

WGS integration in TB control marks a paradigm shift, aiding rapid and accurate drug-resistant strain identification and informing targeted interventions. However, widespread WGS adoption requires infrastructure investments and collaborative efforts among healthcare, research, and policy sectors. Embracing WGS is crucial in combating drug-resistant TB, saving lives, and safeguarding public health.