Kandahar: Over 1,100 cases of tuberculosis have been reported in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, in the past six months, according to a report by the provincial public health department. The report said that the number of cases has decreased by 6.5% compared to the same period last year, but that the level of the disease among women is still higher.
The head of the tuberculosis section in Kandahar’s Public Health Department, Jamaluddin Azimi, said that the decrease in cases is due to a number of factors, including increased awareness of the disease and improved access to treatment. However, he warned that the risk of tuberculosis remains high in the province, and that more needs to be done to prevent the spread of the disease.
Tuberculosis is a serious infectious disease that can be fatal if left untreated. It is caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The symptoms of tuberculosis can include fever, cough, weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue. If you think you may have tuberculosis, it is important to see a doctor right away. Treatment for tuberculosis is available and can be effective if started early.
The burden of tuberculosis is particularly high in Afghanistan. The country has one of the highest rates of tuberculosis in the world, with an estimated 70,000 new cases diagnosed each year.
The factors that contribute to the high burden of tuberculosis in Afghanistan include poverty, poor health infrastructure, and conflict. The ongoing conflict in Afghanistan has made it difficult to provide access to essential health services, including tuberculosis treatment.
The report on the cases of tuberculosis in Kandahar is a reminder of the challenges that Afghanistan faces in the fight against tuberculosis. However, it is also a sign of progress, as the number of cases has decreased in recent years. With continued efforts, it is possible to reduce the burden of tuberculosis in Afghanistan and save lives.
In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are a number of other risk factors for tuberculosis, including; HIV infection, diabetes, malnutrition, smoking, and a weakened immune system
If you have any of these risk factors, it is important to be tested for tuberculosis regularly. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing the spread of the disease and for improving your chances of recovery.