Transforming the language used in tuberculosis care

Unveiling the power of neutral and inclusive language in tuberculosis prevention and care

“…They are also conveyed through a language that is full of dehumanising terminology that reduces those who have TB to the illness that affects them [ 12 ]. Regardless of intent, one's belief and value systems and contextual meanings about TB give way to a discourse that normalises labels, stereotypes, and low standards of worth, value, and acceptability that associate the disease with poverty, deviance, and danger [ 5 , 10 , 13 ].…”

“…This highly stigmatising discourse triggers deep social reactions: from disdain, horror, and guilt to sympathy and apathy, and is often dismissed as a “disease of the other” [ 13 ]. Terminology such as “suspect” or “suspicion” when referring to individuals exhibiting symptoms of TB can inadvertently shift blame onto the affected person, despite their innocence of any wrongdoing, and may inadvertently contribute to the criminalisation of vulnerable individuals, adding an undue burden to their already challenging circumstances [ 15 ].…”

“…Terminology such as “suspect” or “suspicion” when referring to individuals exhibiting symptoms of TB can inadvertently shift blame onto the affected person, despite their innocence of any wrongdoing, and may inadvertently contribute to the criminalisation of vulnerable individuals, adding an undue burden to their already challenging circumstances [ 15 ]. Additionally, while emphasising TB's connections to a specific country, race, ethnicity, gender, living condition, legal status, or income group is important for health programming and resource allocation, it may also reinforce its “othering”, especially if the opportunity to expose and amplify the structural violence that sustains those connections is missed [ 13 ].…”

“…Given the harmful effects of using an inappropriate and marginalising discourse [ 13 , 16 ], it is critical to engage with TB-affected communities to: 1) recognise the barriers to which they are subject; and 2) co-construct a complete vocabulary that not only allows a clear description of TB phenomena but is also free of any terminology founded on prejudices or misplaced beliefs about the disease and the affected people.…”

“…A neutral and inclusive language makes use of language resources to progressively abolish and transform the use of words and expressions that may be considered discriminatory and stigmatising towards people, groups, or communities that are socially underrepresented, unprotected, or vulnerable to stereotypes, perceptions, and negative attributions [ 20 ]. It acknowledges the dignity of people affected by TB, generating compassion and empathy, and fostering a more understanding, supportive, and people-centred approach to care [ 13 ]. It also creates an open and nonjudgmental environment in which affected individuals feel safe to come forward, ultimately encouraging them to seek medical attention and disclose their TB diagnosis without fear of discrimination or shame [ 13 ].…”