Challenges persist in detecting tuberculosis cases in Far-west

Dhangadhi: Despite various efforts to control tuberculosis in the Far West, detecting new patients remains a significant challenge.

According to the Far West Health Directorate, the number of undetected tuberculosis patients in the province may be high, with many citizens outside the reach of the health system remaining at risk. Manoj Prasad Ojha, TB focal person at the Health Directorate, stated that a target of identifying 6,384 new tuberculosis cases was set for the fiscal year 2082/083.

However, only 3,651 new patients have been detected, which is just 57 percent of the target. Among the nine districts in the province, the Terai districts of Kailali and Kanchanpur have emerged as the main centers of tuberculosis. Data shows that 68 percent of the total patients identified across the province are from these two districts, with 42 percent from Kailali and 26 percent from Kanchanpur.

According to Ojha, the higher number of cases in the Terai compared to the hilly districts is due to greater population density and migration. Efforts to improve detection have included increased use of modern technology. Sputum testing through the Gene Expert machine has been intensified, with 2,253 cases confirmed out of 16,264 tests conducted last year.

Additionally, active case finding is being carried out at the community level using digital X-ray machines equipped with artificial intelligence. Such outreach programs in various municipalities of Kailali and Kanchanpur have helped identify many previously undetected patients.

Treatment outcomes in the Far West are considered satisfactory, with a success rate of 89.94 percent among patients undergoing treatment. However, the mortality rate remains a concern. In the last fiscal year, 3.86 percent of patients died due to tuberculosis, with slightly higher mortality rates reported in Achham and Doti districts.

Furthermore, 35 cases of severe, drug-resistant tuberculosis have been identified, requiring prolonged and complex treatment, according to Ojha.

Ojha emphasized the need for community-based patient identification. He highlighted that the priority now is to ensure regular screening of patients visiting both government and private health facilities, address malnutrition, and prevent patients from discontinuing medication midway.