Aiming for Tuberculosis-free nation: Role of National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP)

Published On 2023-05-08T16:00:00+05:30 | Updated On 8 May 2023 10:30 AM GMT

Overview

Currently, the central government is implementing multiple programs to combat various communicable and non-communicable diseases. However, the national Tuberculosis eradication program has recently garnered significant attention. In fact, the government of India announced its plan to completely eliminate TB by the year 2025 in a parliamentary notification.

Tuberculosis, caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium, is a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air from an infected person. According to statistics, a single TB patient can infect over 10 individuals within a year. Furthermore, the disease represents a significant public health challenge, with TB ranking as the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent - surpassing HIV/AIDS. Worryingly, almost a quarter of the world's population has been infected with M. tuberculosis. On a positive note, TB is curable, and prevention is possible. In fact, close to 85% of individuals affected by TB can be successfully treated with a 6-month drug regimen.

The National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) represents the government's public health initiative aimed at eradicating this disease.

In today’s health perspective episode, we have Dr. Jugal Kishore who is a respected medical educator going to discuss this program in detail.

Speakers

Dr Rohan Krishnan

Dr. Rohan Krishnan is a National Chairman & Co-Founder FAIMA Doctors Association. He is a well-known medico-social activist and leader of youth doctors and holds many positions in various organizations. He has served as President of Resident Doctors Assoc. , Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, National President, FAIMA doctors Association, Chairman Anti Harassment Cell of FORDA doctors Association, President of Students union, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka. He is presently also serving as Branch President of the Indian Medical Association, Central Council Member, IMA HQ, Orthopaedic Surgeon Maulana Azad Medical College & LNJP Hospital. Academically he is a Hons in MBBS and a university topper at Delhi University. He has more than 25 paper publications under his name and has served as a key speaker at various National and International conference.

Dr Jugal Kishore

Dr. Jugal Kishore, a medical educator and accomplished professional, showcases remarkable capacities and an impressive track record of contributing to the Social, Mental, and Environmental Health Movement in India. With a comprehensive education background, including degrees in MBBS (MAMC), MD (Community Medicine, AIIMS), PGCHFWM (NIHFW), PGDEE, MSc (Sustainable Development), and MSc (Mental Health), he has authored 30 books on public health, national programs, social reform, and rationality, in addition to publishing more than 290 research papers. Dr. Kishore is a founding member of Sabasva foundation and KISHORE Foundation, and his numerous recognitions include being elected as a Fellow of National Academy of Medical Sciences, International Medical Science Academy, Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine, Indian Society of Malaria and other communicable Diseases, and Indian Public Health Association. Joining his remarkable accomplishments, his mission is to promote the liberation of individuals through education and public health.