Key Challenges in TB Eradication in India

Challenges in Eradicating Tuberculosis (TB) in India

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to pose significant challenges in India, affecting millions each year. The main obstacles to eradicating TB include:

• Limited access to accurate and affordable TB diagnosis, especially in remote areas.
• Lack of access to free, high-quality treatment and drugs.
• Insufficient nutritional and mental health support for patients.
• Stigma and lack of gender-responsive care.
• Economic burdens on patients and their families.
• The need for high-quality healthcare services.

Biosocial Nature of TB

TB is referred to as a biosocial problem because it transcends mere medical treatment. It is rooted in social and economic inequities. Factors such as:

• Poverty
• Undernutrition
• Crowded living conditions
• Lack of access to quality healthcare

exacerbate the risk and severity of TB, necessitating comprehensive solutions that address both biological and social determinants.

India's Global Position on TB Elimination

India's approach to TB elimination is gaining international recognition as a pioneering model. The country employs:

• Vaccination strategies
• Preventive treatments
• Newer, shorter treatment regimens

Despite these efforts, India's significant TB burden and challenges such as drug resistance highlight the ongoing need for innovation and investment.

Impact of Undernutrition on TB

Undernutrition significantly increases the risk of developing TB and exacerbates its severity. It contributes to a considerable percentage of new TB cases annually, leading to:

• Increased mortality rates
• Drug toxicity
• Higher relapse rates among TB patients

Addressing undernutrition is crucial for effective TB management and prevention.

Nutritional Support for TB Patients

To support TB patients nutritionally, the Indian government has launched initiatives like:

• A direct benefit transfer of ₹500
• A food-basket scheme under the PM TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan

These initiatives aim to improve treatment outcomes and reduce mortality through essential nutritional support.

Improving TB Diagnosis and Treatment

Efforts to improve TB diagnosis in India include deploying mobile testing units and enhancing access to molecular testing. Increasing coverage of rapid molecular diagnostic tests among presumptive TB patients is vital for:

• Ensuring early diagnosis
• Facilitating prompt treatment

This is crucial for controlling the spread of TB.

Challenges of Drug-Resistant TB

Drug-resistant TB poses a significant challenge in India, with a notable proportion of new and treated cases showing resistance to first-line drugs. Addressing this issue requires:

• Improving diagnostic accuracy
• Ensuring adherence to treatment regimens
• Providing support to affected individuals

Addressing Socioeconomic Factors

Strategies to tackle socioeconomic factors contributing to TB include:

• Doubling the ration for households of TB patients suffering from severe undernutrition
• Providing therapeutic nutrition for those with very severe undernutrition

These approaches not only meet the immediate nutritional needs but also aim to reduce TB incidence among vulnerable populations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the main challenges in eradicating TB in India?
Answer: The main challenges include limited access to diagnosis, lack of quality treatment, undernutrition, stigma, economic burdens, and insufficient healthcare services.

Q2. Why is TB described as a biosocial problem?
Answer: TB is a biosocial problem as it involves medical issues intertwined with social inequities like poverty and inadequate healthcare access.

Q3. How is India viewed in the global fight against TB?
Answer: India's TB elimination efforts are recognized as innovative, employing new treatment strategies, though challenges like drug resistance persist.

Q4. What role does undernutrition play in TB severity?
Answer: Undernutrition is a major risk factor for TB, increasing the severity of the disease and leading to higher mortality rates among patients.

Q5. What initiatives are in place to support TB patients nutritionally in India?
Answer: The government has initiated schemes like a direct benefit transfer and food-basket support under the PM TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan to aid TB patients.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary challenge in eradicating TB in India?
A) Limited access to diagnosis
B) High healthcare costs
C) Lack of public awareness
D) Poor government policies
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: Why is TB considered a biosocial problem?
A) It affects only urban populations
B) It is solely a medical issue
C) It is linked to social inequities
D) It is easy to treat
Correct Answer: C