New TB infections fall in 2025, but older adults still most affected
Singapore has recorded a modest drop in tuberculosis cases, but health authorities warn that underlying risks remain, particularly among older populations.
Cases Decline but Disease Persists
Singapore recorded 1,019 new active tuberculosis (TB) cases in 2025, down from 1,156 cases in 2024, reflecting a slight improvement in disease control efforts. The incidence rate also fell to 24.2 cases per 100,000 people, compared with 27.6 the year before.
Despite this progress, TB remains endemic in Singapore, with authorities stressing that continued vigilance is necessary to prevent resurgence.
Death Toll Drops Significantly
The number of TB-related deaths fell sharply to 11 in 2025, compared with 20 deaths in 2024. This decline highlights improvements in early detection, treatment, and public health management.
Globally, however, TB continues to pose a major health challenge, with over 10.7 million cases and 1.23 million deaths reported in 2024 alone.
Older Adults Most Affected
A significant majority of new TB cases in Singapore were among older individuals, with 77.3 per cent of patients aged 50 and above. This reflects the higher vulnerability of ageing populations to infection and disease reactivation.
Men also made up a larger share of cases, accounting for 65.6 per cent, indicating potential gender-related exposure or health-seeking differences.
Hidden Threat of Latent TB
While active cases have declined, latent TB infection remains a concern, particularly among older age groups. Up to 20 per cent of individuals aged 70 and above are estimated to carry dormant TB bacteria.
Although these individuals are not infectious, the bacteria can reactivate later in life, especially when the immune system weakens, creating a persistent reservoir of future cases.
Strengthening Treatment and Prevention
Singapore continues to strengthen its TB control measures through compulsory contact tracing, screening, and structured treatment programmes. Patients undergo a six- to nine-month treatment course, supported by directly observed therapy (DOT) or video-observed therapy (VOT) to ensure adherence.
From 2026, authorities will introduce more personalised care approaches to improve treatment outcomes and reduce recurrence, reinforcing efforts to protect both individuals and the wider community.
While Singapore’s TB situation shows signs of improvement, the disease remains a long-term public health challenge, requiring sustained prevention, early detection, and strict treatment adherence to keep it under control.
Sources: Straits Times (2026)
Keywords: Singapore TB Statistics, Tuberculosis Cases SG, CDA Report TB, TB Infection Singapore, Public Health SG
