QUETTA: Experts have expressed serious concern over spread of tuberculosis (TB) once again in Balochistan and other parts of the country due to carelessness and lack of awareness among the people in far-flung areas.

“Pakistan ranks fifth in the list of countries worldwide,” they said and added that in Balochistan, more than 11,000 people were being diagnosed with TB annually and provided free medical treatment.

The experts said that this year, like every year, World TB Prevention Day will be observed with a message to create awareness among the people.

They suggested launching a regular campaign for its treatment and caring.

Speaking at a joint meeting held here on Tuesday by the TB Control Programme and its partner organisations, Provincial Manager TB Control Programme Dr Asif Shahwani said: “TB is a 100 per cent treatable disease and we should continue to treat patients with restraint and the spread of the disease can be prevented by ensuring the implementation of preventive measures.”

Published in Dawn, March 2nd, 2022