The ever-increasing rate of Multi-drug resistant TB has added to the vows of medical community, presenting them with a daunting challenge of managing TB. This undesirable situation is the consequence of inadequate usage of 1st and 2nd line anti-TB drugs, along with non-compliance of Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) guidelines. If left untreated, the contagious disease curbs others in the society. The externalities, especially economic constraints, make inroads in the way to cope with the prevention or TB management.
Tuberculosis has marred Indian community severely; reported death figure stands at 1000 for each day. With over 5,000 people developing Tuberculosis (TB) everyday, TB burden in India also betters every other nation. India accounts for one-fifth of the global incidence of tuberculosis, recording shocking figure of 1.9 million cases annually.
India has been addressing to the serious health concern over the years, with several initiatives like ‘DOTS Plus Program’. State representative surveys have found out that ~3% MDR-TB among new TB cases and 12-17% among cases with previous history of anti-TB treatment. There have been problems with integration of existing DOTS program with a new one, but the procedure is continuously improving.
In 2003, Lilly came up with multipronged philanthropic program to fight MDR-TB, which also included health care experts, academia, international organizations and manufacturers of medicines across the globe. Known as ‘Lilly MDR-TB Partnership’, the initiative has been benefiting thousands from its inception.
The institution also joined hands with Government of India's RNTCP for adequate implementation of the DOTS Plus Program in various provinces. The organisation also works along health care institutions such as Indian Medical Association, NGOs, Community Based Organizations (CBO's) and the World Economic Forum's Global Health for combating several other health concerns. The institution is committed to increase awareness and support treatment of MDR-TB, to lower the affected rate.
Moreover, aid to NGOs has been regularly provided to communicate prevention measures, creation of support groups and spreading awareness. The institution also runs a program that has been training women who work along with health workers at various levels.
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