Urgent Need to Address Tuberculosis in South Africa

In South Africa, Tuberculosis (TB) continues to remain as one of the major causes of death, said the country's Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

Rising Tuberculosis Cases in South Africa

"This is exacerbated by the fact that some TB patients do not complete their treatment while others remain 'missing', which means that they are either undiagnosed or are unreported even as they are diagnosed," Mashatile said, adding that the country must recommit to raising greater levels of awareness about the disease alongside its terrible health, social and economic implications.

It's concerning that the last South Africa TB Prevalence Survey positioned the country as one of the 30 high TB burden countries, he said.

Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis - Types, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention
Drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is a globally serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It occurs as multidrug-resistant or MDR TB or in its more severe form, extensively drug-resistant or XDR TB.

‘The fifth national strategic plan for diseases has been launched by South Africa. The strategic plan also aims to eradicate tuberculosis by 2030.’

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"It is critical that everyone infected with TB is aware of the infection, is introduced to treatment and goes on to complete their treatment."

Source-IANS

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Extra pulmonary tuberculosis is infection of tissues and organs other than the lungs by mycobacterium tuberculosis and related organisms.

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Renal tuberculosis or tuberculosis of the kidney is a type of genitourinary tuberculosis that can be treated with anti-tubercular medications.

Screening Tests for Tuberculosis
Tuberculin skin test and Interferon – Release Assays are tests used to screen for tuberculosis.