With U.S. government support, the Kyrgyz Republic significantly improved tuberculosis (TB) detection rates and treatment outcomes, through community support of 1,183 TB patients with treatment and care, including 126 children, and detection of 92 new active TB cases through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) "Support to TB Patients" activity, the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek reported.
The Red Crescent Society of Kyrgyzstan implemented the activity in Osh, Jalal-Abad, Batken, and Naryn oblasts. Key stakeholders including representatives of the Ministry of Health, the National TB Program, regional TB centers, and communities gathered at the final conference to celebrate achievements, analyze results of the five-year activity, and develop new strategies to improve TB treatment support for the most disadvantaged populations.
The activity engaged over 12,000 people in community events aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination against TB patients, resulting in a 33.5% decrease in stigma within the communities in target oblasts. The initiative also focused on enhancing communication skills among healthcare providers, which led to a threefold reduction in reported stigma by medical staff.
The program included advocacy with local governments to provide social support to people affected by TB. A total of 136 local self-governments increased funding for TB support, and as a result, more than 800 TB patients received assistance from local governments totaling 2 million soms.
The activity also launched the www.tbc.kg website to provide comprehensive information on TB, resources, and updates.
