Siddharthnagar Leads with Innovative War Rooms and Screening Techniques
Under the nationwide 100-day Intensified TB-Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Siddharthnagar has implemented specialized "war rooms" to rigorously monitor and accelerate TB intervention efforts. The district administration is leveraging advanced screening methods, including the deployment of ultraportable, handheld X-ray devices, targeting high-risk groups such as diabetics, smokers, alcoholics, HIV patients, elderly individuals, previous TB sufferers, and household contacts of TB patients.
These cutting-edge X-ray machines facilitate comprehensive door-to-door screenings in communities, enabling prompt detection of both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Suspected cases identified through these screenings are immediately subjected to Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT), significantly enhancing early identification of tuberculosis cases.
Early Detection and Timely Intervention
District Magistrate Raja Ganapati R revealed significant progress, stating that of Siddharthnagar's total population of 32.1 lakh, around 12.92 lakh vulnerable individuals have already been screened. This rigorous approach has led to the early detection of 2,343 new TB patients. Moreover, these patients are actively receiving nutritional support through the Ni-kshay Poshan kits, sponsored by designated Ni-kshay Mitras.
In addition, since January this year, 21,165 individuals have commenced TB preventive treatment, underlining the administration’s proactive approach to combating the disease.
Community Participation and Recognition
Highlighting the importance of Jan Bhagidari (public participation), the Siddharthnagar administration emphasizes turning the anti-TB campaign into a people's movement. As a result of consistent efforts, 216 gram panchayats have been officially declared TB-free in the past year.
According to Dr Shailendra Bhatnagar, State Tuberculosis Officer, these panchayats will be rewarded for sustained efforts to remain TB-free. The rewards are structured to motivate continuous vigilance:
- Bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi after one successful year.
- Silver statue after two consecutive successful years.
- Gold statue after maintaining the status for three years.
A notable challenge in TB control has been the prevalent social stigma, discouraging patients from openly seeking help. To combat this, authorities in Siddharthnagar have adopted sensitive approaches, inviting community members to health camps under the guise of general health check-ups. Patient confidentiality is strictly maintained, with nutritional support kits discreetly delivered to patients' homes to ensure their anonymity.
Uttar Pradesh's Commitment to TB Elimination
The success of Siddharthnagar has strengthened Uttar Pradesh's commitment towards eradicating TB. Dr Partha Sarthi Sensharma, Principal Secretary of Medical Health and Family Welfare, emphasized the state government's determination in making the anti-TB drive successful across all 75 districts. Originally started in 15 districts, this special campaign is now active statewide.
Dr Sensharma underscored the comprehensive utilization of existing medical infrastructure, such as X-ray and NAAT machines, along with systematic delivery of monetary benefits through the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana.
India's Determined Fight to Meet Global Goals
India remains dedicated to its goal of eliminating tuberculosis by 2025, despite setbacks from COVID-19. Union Health Minister J P Nadda previously announced the nationwide expansion of the intensified campaign, initially covering 347 districts, later increased to 455.
India’s accelerated actions reflect the nation's resolve to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ending TB, notably five years ahead of the global target of 2030.
With Siddharthnagar setting a powerful example, India's battle against tuberculosis is firmly on track, promising a healthier, TB-free future.
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