Abia worries over gaps in TB awareness, testing

Abia State governor’s wife, Priscilla Otti, has expressed worry over the data from the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP) that revealed that 18 per cent of the state’s recorded 4,976 Tuberculosis (TB) cases last year were undetected due to gaps in testing and awareness.

She reaffirmed the state administration’s commitment to eradicating tuberculosis and strengthening healthcare delivery services and institutions in the state.

Otti stated that under her husband’s leadership, more healthcare centres are now equipped with modern TB diagnostic tools that ensure faster and more accurate testing, adding that last year, the state established five additional GeneXpert testing centres, thus increasing people’s access to rapid TB diagnosis.

She described this year’s World Tuberculosis (TB) Day as a call to action by everyone, including government, health institutions, and individuals, to play an active role in stopping the spread of the disease.

She said that tuberculosis remains a major public health challenge in Abia State due to its strong link with HIV/AIDS, as studies have shown that individuals living with HIV are at a much higher risk of developing TB due to their weakened immune systems.

“Health record shows that 11 per cent of TB patients diagnosed in Abia State last year were co-infected with HIV,” she said.

According to her, this reality underscores the importance of routine medical check-ups and early diagnosis; hence, no one should wait until the symptoms become severe before seeking help, adding that early detection saves lives.

“Free TB testing and treatment programmes have been expanded across the state, making healthcare more accessible to all, especially in rural areas where the disease burden is often higher”.

While emphasising the need for community support and compassion for those battling TB, she identified stigma as one of the biggest barriers to patients who go into silence and isolation instead of going for treatment.

“Tuberculosis is not a death sentence, nor is it a curse but a disease that can be treated free of charge. The responsibility falls on all of us to shun discrimination, embrace love and care, and create a supportive environment where those affected can receive treatment without fear or shame,” Otti added.