In brief
In an enlightening conversation with The New York Times, John Green highlights the persistent threat of tuberculosis in the modern world and critiques the dismantling of crucial health programs under the Trump administration.
On March 27, 2025, best-selling author John Green, known for his emotional young adult novels, turned his gaze toward a global health crisis in his latest book, "Everything is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection." During an interview with The New York Times, Green emphasized his deep commitment to raising awareness about tuberculosis (TB) and its historical context, exploring how the disease has influenced everything from literature to public policy.In his engaging nonfiction work, Green illustrates how TB, despite being curable, claimed 1.3 million lives last year alone. He has successfully utilized his influence on platforms like TikTok and YouTube to mobilize his millions of followers, pressuring pharmaceutical companies to lower drug prices. However, the global health crisis has hit a snag. Recently, the Trump administration notably dismantled the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), resulting in the cessation of vital support for health programs worldwide. This abrupt decision has stunted progress and heightened concerns regarding the management and treatment of TB.In an engaging dialogue with The Times' global health reporter Stephanie Nolen, Green expressed his passion for discussing TB, acknowledging the challenges in sparking interest in conversations about such a serious topic. As he and Nolen delved deeper, they highlighted how TB's complex legacy still affects millions today, reinforcing the need for a renewed focus on combating this persistent menace.Green's commitment to understanding and addressing tuberculosis sheds light on the importance of collective action and policy-making in the fight against infectious diseases.
