Synopsis
Since the launch of the 100-day TB-Mukt Bharat Abhiyan on December 7, 2024, over 5.1 lakh TB patients have been notified in India. The campaign has made significant advances in TB detection and treatment, with a focus on vulnerable populations.Key Takeaways
- Over 5.1 lakh TB patients identified since December 2024.
- New screening strategy using X-ray for high-risk groups.
- More than 10 crore individuals screened.
- Organized over 10 lakh Ni-kshay Shivirs.
- India reported over 26 lakh TB patients in 2024.
New Delhi, Feb 22 (NationPress) More than 5.1 lakh TB patients have been reported throughout India since the commencement of the 100-day TB-Mukt Bharat Abhiyan on December 7, 2024, according to the Health Ministry on Saturday.
Out of these, 2.4 lakh patients were identified within public health institutions, whereas 1.1 lakh were discovered through private healthcare services.
To date, the initiative has shown extraordinary progress. Over 3.5 lakh TB patients have been identified across 455 intervention districts, and more than 10 crore vulnerable individuals have been screened due to enhanced case detection efforts, diminished diagnostic delays, early identification of drug-resistant cases, and improved treatment results.
A novel strategy has been implemented for the early detection of TB, which includes utilizing X-ray technology as a screening method for populations at an increased risk of developing TB.
With the advent of ultraportable, hand-held X-ray devices and intensified door-to-door outreach efforts, risk groups such as diabetics, smokers, alcoholics, individuals living with HIV, past TB patients, the elderly, and household contacts of TB patients have been targeted. Both asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals are being screened with X-ray, followed by confirmation through Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT), leading to the identification of numerous asymptomatic TB cases.
Moreover, over 10 lakh Ni-kshay Shivirs have been organized, and 836 Ni-kshay Vahans have been deployed to broaden the reach of TB services, ensuring coverage in even the most isolated regions.
According to the Health Ministry, more than 38 lakh people have undergone screening using chest X-rays, including a large population that did not display typical TB symptoms.
Concurrently, the campaign aims to ensure complete treatment, enhance differentiated TB care for patients in immediate need, hospitalize undernourished TB patients, and provide preventive TB treatment to vulnerable groups.
India's dedication to combating TB is reflected in the nation's accomplishments thus far. In 2024, India reported over 26 lakh TB patients, effectively narrowing the gap between estimated incidence and those reported to the program.
