VNF - In order to actively detect tuberculosis, the Ho Chi Minh City Public Health Association organizes a mobile radiography program, free TB check-up in some districts in the city.

This is one of the activities of the program "Proper Care" organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Public Health Association and Pham Ngoc Thach Hospital under the sponsorship of the Friends for International Tuberculosis Relief (FIT).

The program is expected to have about 2,500 people screened for tuberculosis. Program participants are those who are at high risk for TB but can’t afford for examination and treatment, including those who are exposed to tuberculosis patients and HIV-infected persons, people with chronic diseases, people living in high risk areas.

It is expected that about 2,500 people will be screened for TB through the program

After an X-ray, people will receive a rapid on-the-spot diagnostic test. For suspected cases, people will be tested by gene-Xpert method. It is the most potent DNA-based TB test technology, with more than 90% accuracy. If positive for tuberculosis, the patient will receive free medical treatment according to the treatment regimen of the national tuberculosis control program and will be consulted and provided with necessary information.

Vietnam currently ranks 15th in 30 countries with the highest TB incidence in the world. Each year, Vietnam has about 123,000 new TB patients, but only about 81% of patients are detected and treated. Early detection of 19% of tuberculosis patients remaining is essential for the prevention of the spread of tuberculosis in the community./.

VNF