Health workers in Maharashtra have identified 24,287 individuals with tuberculosis (TB) symptoms over the past two months as part of a nationwide TB survey.
100-Day National TB Survey Underway
The 100-day national survey, launched on December 7, is an initiative under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), led by the Union Health Ministry. Patients showing TB symptoms are immediately put on treatment. The survey, running until March 24, covers 17 rural regions and 13 municipal areas in Maharashtra.
Targeting High-Risk Groups
Dr. Sandeep Sangale, Deputy Director of Health (TB) in Maharashtra, emphasized that the survey focuses on vulnerable populations, including:
- Elderly individuals
- Smokers
- Diabetes patients
- Residents near industrial zones
- Close contacts of TB patients
Active Surveillance for Early Detection
As reported by Economic Times, Dr. Sangale highlighted that health officials actively conduct screenings at locations or among individuals visiting government healthcare facilities as part of the campaign’s active surveillance approach.
“We conducted TB tests for symptomatic individuals, allowing us to detect over 24,000 cases. This initiative aims to improve TB detection, reduce mortality, and prevent new infections,” he stated.
Extensive Screening and Testing Efforts
Health workers in Maharashtra have conducted:
- 1.87 lakh chest X-ray screenings
- 1.52 lakh sputum tests using NAAT devices
- 1.09 lakh sputum tests under microscopes
All TB case data is being uploaded to the Nikshay portal, a digital platform developed by the Central Government to monitor TB patients.
Collaboration and Awareness Initiatives
Dr. Babita Kamlapurkar, Joint Director (Health Services) Maharashtra, noted that authorities have conducted sensitization programs across medical organizations, including the Indian Medical Association (IMA). She also stated that officials have instructed various government departments linked to the TB elimination program to participate in the campaign.
With continued efforts, Maharashtra aims to strengthen TB detection and accelerate progress toward eliminating the disease.