Science Quickly Author John Green on How Tuberculosis Shaped Our Modern World
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Mar 7, 2025 
John Green, an acclaimed author and Vlogbrother, dives into the world of tuberculosis and its profound effects on history and society. He shares his personal journey from young adult fiction to exploring this pressing health crisis. Green highlights the shocking inequities in access to treatment and discusses how tuberculosis remains a leading cause of death despite being curable. Through captivating stories, he emphasizes the cultural impact of the disease and encourages a humanized understanding of its ongoing challenges.
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TB's Persisting Global Impact
- Tuberculosis infects about a quarter of the world's population but only 10 million get sick annually.
- Despite being curable for decades, TB causes about 1.25 million deaths each year due to poor treatment coverage.
Encounter with TB Patient Henry
- John Green met a boy named Henry with tuberculosis at a hospital in Sierra Leone, sparking his obsession with the disease.
- Henry guided John through the hospital, showing the reality of TB patients and their challenging treatment journeys.
TB's Broad Historical Influence
- Tuberculosis shaped cities like Colorado Springs and Pasadena and influenced cultural trends like the decline of men's facial hair.
- Its historical impact extends beyond health, touching geography and fashion due to its contagious nature.
