Tuberculosis mainly targets people with reduced immunity such as young children or people living with HIV, those with certain conditions such as malnutrition, diabetes or silicosis, and those who smoke or have substance use disorders. Tuberculosis also disproportionately affects people whose health is compromised due to socio-economic circumstances, such as poverty, poor housing, displacement or imprisonment. People with tuberculosis are also at higher risk of mental health disorders. Poor access to health care for these populations results in continued transmission of tuberculosis as well as poorer outcomes and stigma, including for those who access care.   

WHO’s Global TB Programme is working with all stakeholders, including civil society and affected communities to develop comprehensive guidance to address tuberculosis in people with key risk factors and co-morbidities, and among vulnerable populations. WHO promotes multisectoral action on TB, comorbidities and vulnerable populations, and advocates for integrated care so that comorbidities and vulnerabilities are managed using a people-centred approach. WHO also aims to catalyse policy uptake through the collection and generation of data, promotion of research, scientific advocacy, target setting and monitoring progress, and the promotion of best practices.