In order to build public awareness and to intensify efforts to eliminate Tuberculosis, the World TB Day is observed on 24thMarch every year. Pakistan as a signatory to the Post-2015 Global TB Strategy is responding proactively to the pressing need for effective control of Tuberculosis (TB) in the country by adopting and incorporating WHO endorsed guidelines in National Strategic Plan for TB.
The Government of Pakistan has prioritized TB as a major public health challenge and every effort is being made towards its prevention and control. On this occasion, I would like to urge all sections of the society to meet and overcome the challenge with shared responsibility. I am pleased to know that a network of about five thousand facilities integrated within public and private healthcare system, from tertiary care hospitals in metropolitan cities down to primary care level facilities in rural settings, is offering free of cost TB diagnostic and treatment services in the country.
It is also satisfying to know that Pakistan has already taken a major stride in this regard with implementation of 100% Directly Observed Treatment (DOT) coverage. Now we are heading towards universal access to detect the missing and undetected TB cases to achieve “ZERO TB DEATH” in Pakistan by forging a meaningful partnership with the private sector and engaging all care-providers.
It is gratifying to note that the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination is taking all practical steps to achieve the goals in saving every life afflicted with this disease.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED/TELECAST/ BROADCAST BY PRINT/ELECTRONIC MEDIA BEFORE
“WORLD TB DAY” i.e. MARCH 24TH, 2016
