Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Lung Disease: A Blind Spot in Global Lung Health
Valenzuela-García P., Allel K., Stuardo-Tapia L., Balcells ME.
Nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) is an increasingly common chronic respiratory condition that remains underrecognized and underprioritized globally. Affected persons commonly undergo prolonged symptoms, delayed diagnosis, and lengthy multidrug treatments with significant toxicity and limited effectiveness. Despite rising incidence and mortality, particularly among older adults and those with structural lung disease, NTM-PD remains non-notifiable in most regions, resulting in major gaps in surveillance and care. Fragmented health-system responses, limited diagnostic capacity, and minimal therapeutic innovation contribute to neglect. Addressing NTM-PD requires improved surveillance, dedicated care pathways, and greater investment in patient-centered research and treatment.