India bears about 25 percent
of global TB cases: Study
A new research has found that India bears the highest burden of
tuberculosis (TB), around 25 percent of global cases. The findings said, an
urban tuberculosis case infects more individuals per year while a similar case
in rural area remains infectious for longer period.
The new study was conducted by the researchers from the Centre for
Disease Dynamics, Economics and Policy (CDDEP). They have developed an approach
to estimate the extent of TB in India using previous estimates from nearby
countries and a current understanding of the TB transmission.
The results of the findings are published in The International Journal
of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease. Results show differences in urban and rural
TB. While an urban TB case infects more individuals per year, a rural TB case
remains infectious for appreciably longer, suggesting the need for
interventions tailored to these different settings.
The study said,"Simple models of TB transmission, in conjunction
with necessary data, can offer approaches to burden estimation that complement
those currently being used".
An urban TB case will infect an average of 12 people per year and
remains infectious for about one year, while a rural case will infect an
average of 4 people per year, but remains infectious for more than two years.
The study co-author and CDDEP Director Ramanan Laxminarayan said,
"We urgently need improved estimations of the burden of tuberculosis. To
implement appropriate policies and interventions, it is important to understand
the current extent of the disease, as well as transmission dynamics". The
study has been released just before the World Tuberculosis Day on March 24.
This is the second year of the two-year theme, 'Unite to End TB,' with
a focus on addressing stigma, discrimination, marginalization, and overcoming
barriers to access care.
According to reports, the disease is estimated to kill 4,80,000 Indians
every year although it is now believed that these numbers are under-represented
and the mortality could be 5,00,000 a year.
24.03.2017
There’s nothing you can know that
isn’t known
John Lennon
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