Undetected TB Cases Hinder Progress in South Africa and Mozambique
Experts warn that undiagnosed and drug-resistant tuberculosis cases are posing challenges in South Africa and Mozambique, threatening the region's progress in combating the deadly disease.
Tuberculosis (TB) has long been a major public health concern in Africa, but experts say the region is making progress in combating the deadly disease. However, undiagnosed cases and the rise of drug-resistant strains are complicating the fight, particularly in South Africa and Mozambique.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa accounted for nearly a quarter of the global TB burden in 2020. While the continent has seen a decline in overall TB incidence in recent years, the persistence of undetected cases and the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) threaten to undermine these gains.
In South Africa, for instance, it's estimated that nearly 100,000 TB cases go undiagnosed each year. This is partly due to the country's overburdened healthcare system, which struggles to reach remote and underserved communities. Mozambique faces a similar challenge, with an estimated 40,000 undiagnosed TB cases annually.
The issue of drug-resistant TB is also a growing concern. In South Africa, MDR-TB accounts for around 4% of all TB cases, while in Mozambique, the rate is even higher at 7%. These drug-resistant strains require more complex and expensive treatment, further straining the healthcare systems in both countries.
To address these challenges, experts say a multifaceted approach is needed. This includes strengthening primary healthcare networks, improving access to diagnosis and treatment, and investing in research and innovation to develop new tools for TB control.
Additionally, cross-border collaboration and regional coordination will be crucial, as TB does not respect national boundaries. By working together, South Africa, Mozambique, and other African nations can more effectively tackle this persistent public health threat.
As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, the fight against TB must remain a priority. Failure to address the challenges posed by undiagnosed and drug-resistant cases could not only jeopardize the progress made so far but also have devastating consequences for the health and well-being of millions across the African continent.
Source: Deutsche Welle
