By Trend News Line 2024-03-24 00:57:29.
The Challenge of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis in Pakistan
Today, on World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, the theme is set as ‘Yes We Can End TB’. However, amidst this optimistic message, Pakistan is facing a major challenge in the form of drug-resistant TB. Shockingly, it has been reported that 75% of these cases go unidentified, posing a significant threat to public health in the country.
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The Situation in Pakistan
Pakistan currently ranks fifth among high-burden countries globally when it comes to TB cases. Annually, the country sees around 608,000 new TB cases and 15,000 cases of drug-resistant TB. These numbers highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies and initiatives to combat the spread of this disease.
National Efforts to Combat TB
Dr. Razia Fatima, the National Coordinator of the Common Management Unit (CMU), has highlighted the efforts made in 2023 to tackle TB in Pakistan. The CMU, a department of the health ministry focusing on TB, AIDS, and malaria, has implemented various initiatives nationwide. These include providing free TB services at over 1,500 public and private facilities and transitioning to WHO-recommended treatment regimens for drug-resistant TB.
Private Sector Involvement
The private sector has also played a crucial role in the fight against TB in Pakistan. Over 8,000 general practitioners, 300 large private hospitals, and 400 private laboratories have been actively engaged in screening, diagnosis, and treatment efforts. Additionally, active case-finding initiatives, such as mobile vans, have helped detect and notify over 150,000 TB cases.
Challenges and Future Commitments
Despite these achievements, challenges remain, including barriers to TB preventive therapy delivery and the need for continued investment in healthcare infrastructure and human resources. However, the successes so far demonstrate the possibility of ending TB through collective action. On this World TB Day, stakeholders are urged to renew their commitment to ending TB by advocating for access to healthcare and supporting TB programs.
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International Concerns
International non-governmental organization Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has raised concerns about the identification of drug-resistant TB cases in Pakistan. They have encouraged medical practitioners to enhance DRTB diagnosis by using GeneXpert diagnostic testing among suspected tuberculosis cases. MSF has been at the forefront of global efforts to reduce the cost of testing and provide timely treatment for TB patients.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis is crucial in treating TB effectively. Dr. Muhammad Shoaib, the medical coordinator at MSF, emphasized the need to identify DRTB patients early to improve their chances of recovery. With the correct treatment, these patients have a good chance of overcoming the disease.
In conclusion, the fight against TB in Pakistan is ongoing, with various stakeholders working together to combat the spread of the disease. By increasing awareness, advocating for equitable access to healthcare, and supporting TB programs, we can move closer to achieving a TB-free world..
– long-tailed keyword
– tuberculosis cases
– global health body.
