157. The Deadliest Disease in Human History

This episode explores the global impact of tuberculosis (TB), a curable disease that continues to cause over a million preventable deaths annually, primarily in developing countries. Economist Steve Levitt interviews author John Green, whose new book and related activism are aimed at addressing this health inequity. Against the backdrop of TB's historical romanticization in Western culture, Green highlights the stark contrast between TB treatment in the U.S. and countries like Sierra Leone, where cost-benefit analyses often prioritize cheaper, less effective treatments. More significantly, the discussion pivots to potential solutions, including government buyouts of drug patents to ensure affordable access and incentivizing pharmaceutical companies to develop new TB drugs. For instance, Green recounts his successful campaigns pressuring Johnson & Johnson and Danaher to lower prices for TB drugs and diagnostic tests, respectively. The conversation further examines the complexities of balancing market incentives with global health needs, ultimately advocating for policy changes that prioritize human health. Emerging from this is a call to action, urging listeners to support TB-fighting organizations and advocate for government interventions that can eradicate this preventable disease.