Kikuube registers nearly 900 new TB cases annually

 Kikuube: As Uganda joined the world in commemorating International Tuberculosis (TB) Day on Tuesday, there have been increasing calls from experts for the public to undergo early testing and screening for the disease if the global goal of ending the epidemic by 2030 is to be achieved.

According to Dr. Gerald Asaba, the Acting District Health Officer for Kikuube District, the prevalence of TB remains high, especially in congested areas like refugee settlements and among people living with HIV.

Kikuube is one of the districts significantly affected by the disease.

Dr. Asaba noted that areas such as the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement and other densely populated regions are experiencing high TB prevalence. In response, health authorities have intensified screening efforts in these areas.

He highlighted that in Kikuube alone, nearly 70 new TB cases are reported each month, amounting to nearly 900 cases annually.

Dr. Asaba stressed that everyone is at risk of contracting TB, which makes early testing and screening crucial to prevent the disease from spreading further.

The health expert also emphasized that any cough among people living with HIV and those with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) should be taken seriously, as these individuals are more susceptible to TB due to weakened immunity.

Dr. Asaba urged people with low immunity to prioritize early testing and screening in order to receive prompt treatment if diagnosed with the disease, offering a better chance for effective management and prevention of complications.

This year’s World TB Day commemoration was held in Nakasongola District under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” calling for urgency, accountability, and hope in the global fight against TB.

Uganda is among the 30 countries with the highest TB burden globally.

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