Philippine sets new Guinness record for ‘largest human lung formation’

MANILA, Philippines — The country has set a new Guinness World Record for the largest human lung formation after close to 6,000 participants showed up at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila yesterday to raise awareness on tuberculosis (TB).

The Philippines thus surpassed India’s previous record of 5,003 after yesterday’s event gathered 5,596 participants, according to the Department of Health (DOH), the lead organizer of the World TB Commemoration Day.

With the theme “Tuloy ang Bayanihan, TB ay Tuldukan,” the activity gathered participants from various backgrounds across the country, from health workers and Pangtawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps beneficiaries to university students and community members.

“This historic event aims to raise global awareness about TB and eradicate the stigma surrounding the disease. With health leaders from around the world attending and supporting this initiative, the country is set to make a global impact in the ongoing fight against TB. It depicts the collective action and unity of Filipinos to address the challenges posed by TB,” the DOH said in a statement.

Partners of the DOH in the event include the United States Agency for International Development, World Health Organization, Stop TB Partnership and the Philippine Business for Social Progress.

“TB continues to be a global concern even in 2024. With over a million cases, the Philippines has the third-highest number of TB cases worldwide. Unfortunately, among all infectious diseases in the nation, TB remains one of the leading causes of death even though it can be cured,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said.

Tuberculosis is a disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which usually attacks the lungs.

As of Dec. 31 last year, 612,534 new and relapse tuberculosis cases were reported.