Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abubakar Ahmadu Maishanu
Published on 2024-03-23 14:05:53
In 2022, Kano State in Nigeria successfully treated 36,843 cases of Tuberculosis (TB), marking a significant milestone in the fight against this debilitating disease. The Commissioner for Health in the state, Abubakar Yusuf, made this announcement during the commemoration of World TB Day in 2024 at the Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital in Kano.
Mr. Yusuf emphasized the importance of treating TB patients promptly, as untreated cases can lead to the transmission of the disease to 10-15 people within a year. The state government, in collaboration with partners, has been dedicated to reducing the burden and transmission of TB, achieving a notification and treatment rate of 93% of the total cases in 2022.
One of the key initiatives in Kano State’s fight against TB was the deployment of 20 Portable Digital X-ray machines with artificial intelligence in February 2024. These cutting-edge machines, valued at over N3 billion, were donated for the diagnosis of TB and other diseases. Kano State was the first state in Nigeria to receive such a donation, underscoring its commitment to improving healthcare services and outcomes.
The global TB report for 2023 revealed a concerning increase in TB cases worldwide, with 10.6 million people developing the disease, up from 10.3 million in 2022. Nigeria ranks sixth among the 30 high TB-burden countries globally and holds the unenviable position of being first in Africa. Being one of the most populous states in Nigeria, Kano State is among the six states with the highest burden of TB in the country, making the successful treatment of cases even more crucial.
The fight against TB requires significant resources, and Kano State has demonstrated its commitment by approving and releasing funds for TB and Leprosy control initiatives. The state’s efforts, coupled with the support of partners, have been instrumental in improving TB treatment outcomes and reducing the spread of the disease.
As the state continues its battle against TB, there is a need for sustained support and funding to maintain progress and achieve greater success in combating this public health threat. The collaboration between government, healthcare providers, and communities will be essential in ensuring that TB patients receive timely and effective treatment, ultimately leading to a reduction in TB cases and improved health outcomes for the people of Kano State.
In conclusion, Kano State’s success in treating TB cases is a testament to the dedication and hard work of healthcare professionals and the support of partners in the fight against this infectious disease. By leveraging innovative technologies, allocating resources effectively, and raising awareness about TB prevention and treatment, Kano State is making significant strides towards ending the TB epidemic and improving the health and well-being of its population.
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