Agustina Isturini, Director of Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases, stated that the figure reflects an increase from the 15,375 cases recorded in the Tuberculosis Information System (SITB) in 2022.
She noted that the ministry has made several efforts to eliminate TB, including integrating TB screening into the Free Health Check-up (PKG) program.
One measure to address TB involves screening all people living with HIV (PLHIV) for the disease. This approach aims to enable early detection and ensure timely treatment.
"Moreover, HIV tests are also conducted for TB patients," Isturini added.
PLHIV confirmed with TB are provided with TB treatment and antiretrovirals (ARVs). ARVs are prescribed to all individuals diagnosed with HIV, regardless of clinical stage or CD4 count.
Isturini emphasized that ARVs should be administered on the same day or no later than the seventh day after diagnosis.
For TB patients newly diagnosed with HIV, ARVs are given as soon as possible, ideally within the first two weeks. PLHIV without TB are offered tuberculosis prevention therapy (TPT).
PLHIV are among the groups most vulnerable to TB. Other high-risk groups include children, smokers, the elderly, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with direct contact with TB patients.
TB is an infectious disease that can spread if not promptly detected and treated. However, it is curable if patients adhere to treatment prescribed by medical personnel.
"Treatment can take six months to more than a year, so community support is essential to ensure successful TB treatment," Isturini explained.
As of early January 2024, TB case notifications were recorded at approximately 860,000 out of an estimated 1.092 million cases. In 2023, at least 820,000 of an estimated 1.060 million TB cases were notified.
"There has been a year-on-year increase in the proportion of case detection and treatment. This is a positive indicator for identifying TB patients, ensuring better treatment, and preventing further transmission," Isturini observed.
However, she added, the figure has not yet reached the government's target. Breakthroughs and acceleration strategies are required, including integrating TB screening with the PKG program.
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Translator: Mecca Yumna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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