The Eastern Regional Health Director, Dr. Winfred Ofosu has said, despite significant strides in treatment success rates in the Region, 199 Tuberclosis patients succumbed to the disease in 2023 alone.
According to Dr. Winfred Ofosu, 2023, a total of 2,219 cases were detected and treated, surpassing the previous year’s figures.
Among the detected cases, 70 were children under the age of 15, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.
Despite a commendable 75% cure rate and 85% treatment completion rate, Dr. Ofosu expressed concern over the 9% mortality rate and 3% loss to follow-up or default cases.
Eastern Region has long been grappling with its share of the national TB burden.
However, recent years have seen commendable progress in identifying and treating TB cases.
He said this during the launch of this year’s World TB Day under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB”.
Dr. Winfred Ofosu mentioned Eastern Region has launched an ambitious plan to raise awareness, enhance case detection, and ensure prompt treatment across all 33 districts.
Activities include street parades, radio discussions, community engagements, and health facility screenings.
Emphasizing the importance of community participation, Dr. Ofosu reassured the public of free treatment and confidential, courteous care.
Additionally, each patient will receive dedicated support throughout their treatment journey.
The construction of a new TB treatment facility in Nsawam further underscores the region’s commitment to combating the disease.
Looking ahead, the Eastern Region is determined to detect cases early, reduce mortalities, and eliminate defaulters. Close collaboration with patients and communities is seen as pivotal in achieving these goals.
The launch of the World TB Day campaign marks a significant milestone in the region’s fight against tuberculosis, signaling a united effort to stop the spread of the disease and ultimately eradicate it from the Eastern Region.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
