Stop TB Partnership Combating Tuberculosis: Importance of Collaborative Efforts in Bangladesh

In the wake of the reality of the post-corona epidemic, the global community is witnessing a transformative shift towards prioritizing public health and sustainable development goals. Despite concerted efforts to strengthen health systems worldwide, ancient diseases like tuberculosis continue to pose significant challenges to public health. On World Tuberculosis Day, stakeholders convened at a roundtable titled ‘World Tuberculosis Day: Private Partnerships in Tuberculosis and Public Health Development,’ organized by icddr,b, and Prothom Alo in collaboration with Stop TB Partnership. This pivotal event aimed to delve into the perspectives and impacts of sustainable development goals while fostering dialogue on effective strategies to combat tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis remains a pressing concern in Bangladesh, with approximately 1,038 new cases diagnosed daily and an alarming rate of drug-resistant cases. Despite advancements in treatment and access to healthcare, many individuals remain undiagnosed, exacerbating the spread of the disease. Dr. Shahriar Ahmed, an assistant scientist at icddr,b, emphasized the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to address the persisting challenges of tuberculosis control. He highlighted the importance of early detection, effective treatment, and public awareness campaigns in curbing the prevalence of the disease.

The roundtable discussions underscored the critical role of private partnerships in tuberculosis eradication efforts. Samina Chowdhury, USAID’s infectious disease team leader, emphasized the significance of engaging non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and empowering youth to drive awareness and advocacy initiatives. By mobilizing resources and leveraging community-driven approaches, stakeholders can bolster efforts to raise awareness and combat the stigma associated with tuberculosis.

Furthermore, the roundtable highlighted the need for coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors to enhance tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment. Mahafuzer Rahman Sarker, the line director of the national tuberculosis control program (NTP) at DGHS, outlined the government’s initiatives to expand diagnostic facilities and reduce tuberculosis-related mortality and new infections by 2035. Bangladesh aims to achieve significant progress in tuberculosis control and prevention by deploying sophisticated diagnostic tools and strategic interventions.

Key stakeholders emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration and social mobilization in addressing the socioeconomic determinants of tuberculosis. Dr. Sayera Banu, the chief of the infectious diseases division at icddr,b, underscored the need for comprehensive awareness campaigns targeting diverse segments of society. By fostering partnerships with community leaders, healthcare providers, and civil society organizations, stakeholders can promote early detection and access to quality care for tuberculosis patients.

The roundtable discussions also shed light on the urgent need for innovative approaches to tuberculosis control in the post-corona epidemic era. Syed Abdul Hamid, a professor of health economics at Dhaka University, highlighted the importance of investment in scientific research, public-private partnerships, and social movements to combat tuberculosis effectively. By harnessing technological advancements and adopting evidence-based strategies, stakeholders can accelerate progress toward tuberculosis eradication and achieve sustainable development goals.

Tuberculosis remains a prevalent concern in Bangladesh and 30 other countries, with many individuals still succumbing to the disease despite decades of control programs. Dr. Azharul Islam from icddr,b highlighted the continued public health threat posed by tuberculosis due to a lack of awareness and effective treatment. Rubina Haque emphasized the importance of prevention through societal awareness, particularly by leveraging the active presence of youth on social media platforms.

Despite advancements in treatment accessibility, tuberculosis diagnosis rates remain low, exacerbated by inadequate awareness among the general population. Architect Fouzia Jahan highlighted the need for improved workplace health and safety measures, particularly in the construction industry, where worker health is often overlooked. Dr Sharmin Ahmed’s personal experience with tuberculosis debunked the misconception that the disease only affects the lower class, emphasizing the need for comprehensive awareness campaigns. Syed Giyas Uddin underscored the role of youth in driving change, advocating for increased sincerity and accountability in tuberculosis control efforts at all levels of society.

Nadim Reza, a PPM Expert, and stakeholders emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration and technological innovation in raising awareness and addressing socioeconomic barriers to tuberculosis prevention and treatment. IT expert and startup founder Shahriar Hasan Jisan highlighted the potential of corporate partnerships and telecommunications companies in leveraging social media for awareness campaigns.

Lawyer Neshat Unjum called for greater private sector involvement in tuberculosis control efforts, citing the need for increased awareness in socioeconomic terms. The roundtable discussions concluded with a call for scientific research, investment, and public-private initiatives to combat tuberculosis and other diseases in the new socioeconomic landscape post-corona epidemic. Bangladesh’s successes in the health sector serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges in Asia and Africa.

In conclusion, the roundtable meeting on World Tuberculosis Day served as a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, share best practices, and chart a course for collaborative action. As Bangladesh navigates the challenges of tuberculosis control in the new socioeconomic landscape, collective efforts and innovative solutions are paramount. By prioritizing public health development, fostering partnerships, and mobilizing resources, stakeholders can work towards a tuberculosis-free future for all.

Total 735 views. Thank You for caring my happiness.

Comments

comments