Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast Why ‘Everything is Tuberculosis’ with John Green
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Apr 1, 2025 
John Green, author of "Everything Is Tuberculosis" and co-creator of Vlogbrothers, discusses the chilling persistence of tuberculosis as the deadliest infectious disease today. He reveals how TB serves as a stark reflection of global health disparities and healthcare inequities. Green also emphasizes the danger of multi-drug resistant strains and critiques policy changes undermining healthcare efforts. The conversation dives into the intertwined nature of illness, stigma, and human behavior, urging a compassionate response to public health crises.
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Ancient History of TB
- Tuberculosis is an ancient disease, predating Homo sapiens and present across the globe.
- It likely spread to the Americas from Japan via infected seals.
Industrialization and TB
- Industrialization led to a dramatic increase in tuberculosis cases.
- At its peak in England, tuberculosis caused nearly a third of all deaths.
Romanticizing TB
- During the 18th and 19th centuries, tuberculosis was romanticized, particularly among artists.
- Paleness, rosy cheeks, and wide eyes associated with the disease were considered beautiful.
