World Tuberculosis Day: Raising Awareness and Supporting Young Patients

Every year, 24th March marks World Tuberculosis Day, a global initiative to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB) and the efforts needed to eliminate this infectious disease. The day commemorates Dr. Robert Koch’s discovery of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium in 1882, a breakthrough in diagnosing and treating TB. Despite medical advancements, tuberculosis remains a major public health concern, particularly in developing countries like India, where millions continue to battle this preventable and curable disease.

Tuberculosis is an airborne disease that primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other organs. It spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing bacteria into the air. While TB can affect individuals of all ages, children are particularly vulnerable due to their weaker immune systems. Paediatric TB often goes undiagnosed, as symptoms in children can be subtle, leading to delayed treatment and higher mortality rates. Malnutrition, poverty, and poor living conditions further exacerbate the spread of TB among children, making it crucial to address both medical and social determinants of health.

Child Help Foundation (CHF) is dedicated to supporting children affected by tuberculosis through various initiatives. Recognising that malnutrition significantly weakens immunity and prolongs recovery, CHF provides monthly ration kits to paediatric TB patients in Mumbai Suburban and Mulund, Maharashtra. These ration kits contain essential nutrients to aid in strengthening the immune system. This project is a part of Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and was done in collaboration with Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mira Bhaindar Municipal Corporation (MBMC). For our efforts, CHF has also been awarded an appreciation letter.

Malnutrition and TB form a vicious cycle—TB leads to weight loss and malnutrition, while malnutrition weakens the immune system, making children more susceptible to infections. CHF’s initiative aims to break this cycle by ensuring children undergoing TB treatment receive adequate nutrition. Each ration kit includes protein-rich pulses, rice, wheat flour, cooking oil, milk powder, and essential vitamins, designed to meet the dietary needs of recovering TB patients.

Beyond providing direct assistance, CHF actively engages in awareness campaigns to educate communities about TB prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment adherence. Many TB cases remain undiagnosed due to stigma and lack of knowledge. CHF conducts workshops, distributes informational leaflets, and collaborates with healthcare professionals to encourage early testing and reduce misconceptions surrounding TB. These efforts aim to create a more supportive environment for affected children and their families.

Limited healthcare access remains a challenge for many underprivileged families. CHF collaborates with hospitals and clinics to facilitate timely TB screening, diagnosis, and treatment. By working alongside government healthcare initiatives, CHF ensures that children receive the medical care they need without financial constraints. The organisation also helps families navigate the healthcare system, ensuring treatment adherence and follow-ups to prevent relapse.

On World Tuberculosis Day, Child Help Foundation reaffirms its commitment to supporting paediatric TB patients. While significant progress has been made in TB treatment and prevention, there is still much work to be done. By addressing nutritional needs, raising awareness, and improving healthcare access, CHF is making a tangible impact in the fight against tuberculosis.

Together, we can work towards a TB-free world. Join CHF in its mission to provide care, support, and hope to children battling this disease. Your contribution can help change lives and build a healthier future for all.