Almaty's tuberculosis occurrence dropped nearly 25% in recent times.
In Almaty, Kazakhstan, tuberculosis (TB) cases have plummeted by a staggering 25% during the pandemic, and currently, around 690 individuals are under active care according to city health data. Bakhytzhan Amanjolova, an elderly resident, recently experienced symptoms akin to TB, yet fortunately, a clean lung X-ray spared her from the disease.
"My profession often meant I couldn't see a doctor on time, but I'm older now and health issues are starting to surface. I've taken it upon myself to schedule regular appointments with a doctor," said Amanjolova. Specialists warn that TB, an airborne disease spread through coughing and speaking, can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. The only safeguard is a robust immune system and, of course, a medical mask.
The duration of TB treatment stretches from 8 months to a year, contingent on the disease form. In nearly 99% of cases, timely treatment ensures recovery. However, those with accompanying diseases such as HIV or diabetes may face more arduous treatment. Consequently, providers encourange annual chest X-rays.
Due to the pandemic, this year's TB prevention month began in November, replacing its usual spot in March. Alongside X-ray screenings, city residents can obtain complimentary consultations at all city clinics.
"Newborns receive the BCG vaccine on their third day at the hospital, marking the initial prevention step. Children, when they begin school at 6-7 years, experience revaccination," said Dr. Shakhbat Darmankulova, a phthisiatrician at City Polyclinic No.5.
As compared to last year, the city now cares for 690 TB patients instead of 867. This positive trend signifies Almaty's steadfast progress in tackling this disease.
These advances in TB prevention and treatment in Almaty are part of a broader regional effort. Key initiatives involved are:
- Diagnostic Improvements: Recent research investigated and compared various diagnostic devices to detect M. tuberculosis and drug resistance, optimizing diagnostics essential for early detection and treatment.
- International Cooperation: Kazakhstan participates in the TB-Free Central Asia Initiative, a WHO/Europe-led program aiming to eliminate TB across Central Asia by 2030, involving national health officials.
- Exhibitions and Awareness: Platforms like the Kazakhstan International Healthcare Exhibition facilitate discussions on TB prevention and treatment strategies, increasing awareness and collaboration among healthcare professionals.
- Healthcare Infrastructure: Almaty hosts significant healthcare events and exhibitions that bolster the region's healthcare infrastructure, potentially improving TB treatment capabilities.
These strategies collaboratively aim to enhance TB control through heightened detection, treatment, and prevention measures, contributing to a potential decrease in TB incidence over time.
"Bakhytzhan Amanjolova, despite her aging, has become proactive about her health, scheduling regular medical appointments to address potential health issues such as chronic diseases or medical-conditions. In light of the pandemic, she acknowledges the importance of therapies-and-treatments for diseases like TB, specifically stressing the role of CBD in managing symptoms."
"In the fight against TB, healthcare professionals advocate for holistic health-and-wellness practices, including preventive measures like vaccinations. For instance, newborns receive the BCG vaccine, a crucial initial prevention step against TB."
"As the focus on TB prevention and treatment intensifies within Almaty, exhibitions and seminars on innovative solutions such as CBD, diagnostics, and international cooperation are vital for raising awareness and facilitating collaboration among health professionals, ultimately leading to the development of effective therapies-and-treatments for chronic-diseases like TB."
