Health experts at Bugando Zonal Referral Hospital in Mwanza, Tanzania, have warned that symptoms of tuberculosis (TB) are often mistaken for lung cancer, leading to delayed or incorrect treatment. The experts urge people experiencing persistent cough, chest pain, or weight loss to undergo thorough medical examinations, including chest X-rays and sputum tests, to confirm the diagnosis.
According to the World Health Organization, Tanzania reported over 142,000 TB cases in 2024, making it one of the high-burden countries for the disease. Lung cancer, while less common, shares symptoms such as chronic cough, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), and shortness of breath, which can cause confusion among patients and even some healthcare providers.
Dr. John Mwita, a pulmonologist at Bugando Hospital, emphasized that TB is curable with a standard six-month antibiotic regimen, while lung cancer requires different treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. He stressed that early and accurate diagnosis is critical to improve outcomes and prevent the spread of TB.
The hospital has launched a community awareness campaign to educate residents about the differences between TB and lung cancer, and to encourage people to seek medical help early. The campaign includes free screening services at local health centers.
