NGO holds TB sensitisation in Kaduna communities

Kadashi Initiatives on Equity Health Empowerment and Education (KIEHEE), an NGO has conducted a tuberculosis sensitisation campaign in several suburban communities in Kaduna.

The initiative aimed to educate residents about the dangers of tuberculosis, its risk factors, especially among smokers and preventive measures.

Executive Director of the organisation, Amos Kadashi-Isuwa, on Monday in Kaduna explained that the campaign was part of activities marking World Tuberculosis Day.

He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about tuberculosis’ impact on individuals and families and promoting healthy living practices, including eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and limiting excessive alcohol consumption.

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Kadashi-Isuwa said the targeted communities included Kanti Agah, Sabon Tasha, Angwan Durunwa, Tsauni, and Kurah in Chikun Local Government Area.

He said that the sensitization campaign focused on educating the public about tuberculosis transmission, its symptoms, and available treatments.

“It also aimed to correct misconceptions about the disease.

“The campaign utilized one-on-one street discussions, flyer distribution, and local language communication to reach residents, traders, and commuters.”

Kadashi-Isuwa highlighted the link between smoking and the increased risk of tuberculosis, urging early detection and treatment to prevent its spread.

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He also addressed common myths about tuberculosis, clarifying that the disease was caused by bacteria and could affect anyone, regardless of social status.

“Tuberculosis is curable with proper treatment,” he said, stressing that delayed treatment could lead to drug-resistant tuberculosis, which was harder to treat.

Kadashi-Isuwa also encouraged residents to take advantage of free tuberculosis testing at government health centres and emphasised that the common symptoms of tuberculosis include a persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats, and fever.

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He called for increased tuberculosis awareness campaigns and greater collaboration with local health centres to improve screening accessibility.

Kadashi-Isuwa also urged the government and NGOs to engage local influencers and religious leaders to amplify the message.

In response, community elders, including Mr. Bala Musa, expressed support for the initiative and pledged to raise awareness, especially among children.

The campaign also helped dispel misconceptions, such as the belief that tuberculosis was a spiritual attack.