What percent of the population is infected with tuberculosis?

The percentage of the population infected with tuberculosis (TB) varies widely depending on geographical region and local factors. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 10 million people became ill with TB globally in 2019, or nearly 1 per cent of the world's population. TB is more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, with some parts of the world having much higher infection rates. For example, sub-Saharan Africa has the highest incidence of TB, accounting for around a quarter of global cases. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV or diabetes, are at a higher risk of developing TB. Therefore, the prevalence of TB in a given population can vary significantly based on these factors.