By Steven Enatu
Tuberculosis (TB) and HIV co-infections continue to pose a significant burden in Teso Sub Region, with particular challenges related to men avoiding medical attention for these conditions.
On April 12, 2024, journalists in Teso Sub Region were briefed on the critical issue of TB and HIV co-infections through a training in media science cafe organized by the Health Journalists Network Uganda. The aim was to spotlight the region’s struggles in addressing this pressing public health concern.
Globally, Uganda is among the 30 countries with high rates of TB/HIV co-infections. Annually, about 90,000 people in Uganda are affected by TB, including 15% children under 14 and 32% who are TB-HIV co-infected. Despite national increases in TB case notifications, Teso experiences declining case detection due to missed opportunities, poor health-seeking behaviors, and limited public awareness.
The AIDS Information Centre (AIC) report in Teso Sub Region reveals that men’s reluctance to seek medical care is a key factor in lower treatment rates compared to women. TB prevalence statistics show a concerning trend, with men accounting for 56% of cases, followed by women at 33%, and children under 5 at 11%.
During the journalist training, Gerald Ochieng, TB Advisor at Aids Information Centre, highlighted gaps in TB data registers within Teso’s healthcare facilities, hindering effective treatment. Only 61% of symptomatic individuals seek care, mainly at public facilities, but appropriate TB investigations are provided to only 16.3% of cases.
Despite Teso’s adequate diagnostic capacity for its 2.5 million population, there’s a critical need to strengthen TB-HIV service integration, ensuring HIV testing is readily available and free in all healthcare facilities for early detection and treatment.
Ochieng stressed the importance of enhancing health workers’ capacity to manage TB cases and engaging communities through awareness campaigns to dispel misconceptions and promote timely medical attention.
Abdallah Ochoggia, Advocacy and Communications Specialist at Aids Information Centre, emphasized the socio-economic impact of TB and advocated for social protection measures, including monthly food support for diagnosed individuals.
To address these challenges, concerted efforts from stakeholders are crucial to combat TB and HIV co-infections effectively. Targeted interventions, improved healthcare access, and heightened awareness can pave the way for a healthier future in Teso.