The Department of Health-Davao Region (DOH-Davao) is taking proactive measures to address the increasing number of tuberculosis (TB) cases in the region, particularly focusing on the Indigenous Peoples (IPs). The department is conducting a series of TB orientations and action planning workshops for IPs in underserved and geographically isolated areas.
With the growing number of tuberculosis (TB) cases in the Davao Region , the Department of Health - Davao Region (DOH-Davao) is implementing a comprehensive strategy to combat the disease, particularly focusing on Indigenous Peoples (IPs). DOH-Davao reported a significant surge in TB cases, recording approximately 21,600 cases in 2023 compared to 16,147 cases in 2022. Davao City accounts for the majority of these cases.
Vulnerable areas within Davao City include Baguio District, Calinan District, Tugbok District, Toril A District, and Brgy. Marilog Proper within the Marilog District. In response to this alarming trend, DOH-Davao, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, Davao City Health Office, and the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), organized a TB orientation and action planning workshop specifically for IPs. Dr. Grace Amistoso, chief of the Regulations, Licensing, and Enforcement Division at DOH, emphasized that the department is actively intensifying efforts and initiatives to reach geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (Gidas) to improve health-seeking behavior among residents through a series of TB orientations. Dr. Amistoso highlighted the importance of achieving zero TB cases within IP communities, stressing that a united front is crucial to accomplish this goal. She acknowledged the role of community leaders as integral parts of the solution. She further pointed out that Gidas present unique challenges in identifying and treating TB cases due to limited healthcare infrastructure, socioeconomic hurdles, and inadequate knowledge about TB. DOH-Davao underscored the effectiveness of these orientations and case-finding activities in empowering community leaders to address TB awareness within their respective communities. The department outlined a multi-pronged approach to combatting TB, encompassing identification, testing, evaluation, and treatment of individuals with TB infections. DOH-Davao explained that TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. It spreads through the air when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or spit, with the bacteria being inhaled by others. Individuals exposed to the bacteria have a 5 to 10 percent lifetime risk of developing TB. Those with weakened immune systems, such as individuals living with HIV, malnutrition, or diabetes, as well as tobacco users, are at an elevated risk of contracting the disease. The department strongly encourages anyone experiencing symptoms of TB, including coughing, fever, and unexplained weight loss, to seek early treatment to prevent further transmission and maximize their chances of recovery
Tuberculosis TB DOH-Davao Indigenous Peoples Ips Health Awareness Prevention Treatment Gidas Davao Region
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