Atotal of 475,935 tuberculosis (TB) patients were treated in Nigeria between 2009 and 2013.
Oladapo Ladipo, president, Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH), who disclosed this in Ibadan, Oyo State, said the treatment was carried out in partnership with the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP).
The medical expert, who lamented rising cases of TB virtually on monthly basis since the past five years, emphasised the urgent need to mobilise more resources to assist all tiers of government in Nigeria to tackle the problem of tuberculosis headlong.
Ladipo, a professor, made the observation at a conference heralding the 25th anniversary celebration of ARFH, adding that a total of 4,400 community volunteers were trained by ARFH during the period under review, to identify presumptive tuberculosis cases and refer them to Directly Observed Therapy (DOTS) clinics, to access treatment.
He said the association had already enhanced the capacity of 420 community-based organisations to create awareness about tuberculosis, its treatment, care and other services.
According to him, “tuberculosis is a major tropical problem that trailed the emergence of HIV and AIDS; its symptoms include chronic cough or persistent weight loss.” He urged anyone with such symptoms to visit the nearest DOTS clinic where TB drugs were being provided free of charge.
On healthcare delivery in Nigeria generally, Ladipo said appropriate incentives should be given to health workers posted to rural areas.
He specifically charged communities to be involved by ensuring that the working environment in the rural areas was improved upon to make the areas more conducive.
Remi Feyisipo
