The 2024 Union World Conference on Lung Health in Bali brought together global leaders to share innovations and strategies to end tuberculosis (TB). LEAP Local TAs from DRC, Eswatini, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Uganda, and Zambia joined the discussions, sharing successes and learning from global best practices.
Key Highlights
- Innovative Diagnostics: Malawi showcased stool-based TB testing for children and the use of AI-powered digital chest X-rays for miners and construction workers, improving early TB detection.
- Mental Health Integration: Evidence from WHO pilots highlighted the importance of mental health services for TB patients, increasing treatment adherence.
- Nutrition as a TB Determinant: Kenya and the Philippines demonstrated the benefits of integrating nutrition programs to improve treatment outcomes.
Groundbreaking Developments
- A TB vaccine in Phase 3 trials offers hope for 2027.
- AI-powered tools and real-time data platforms are transforming TB detection and management.
- Social protection programs like cash transfers have shown significant impacts in reducing TB-related costs.
Collaborations and Partnerships
LEAP Local facilitated discussions with international organizations and industry leaders, including:
- Expanding the SMART4TB Project to new regions like the DRC.
- Partnering with tech innovators to enhance diagnostics.
- Engaging WHO and USAID to scale treatment regimens and improve program efficiencies.
A Shared Vision
Ending TB by 2035 is achievable with innovation, investment, and a multisectoral approach addressing health and social determinants. LEAP Local’s active participation and shared successes underscore the power of collaboration in achieving global health goals.
By embracing bold strategies and working together, the global community can end TB and transform lives worldwide.
Together, let’s accelerate the fight against TB.
LEAP Local Technical Advisor attendees
- Dr. Fidele Mukinda, Senior Advisor: TB Monitoring & Evaluation, DRC
- Dr. Sein Thei, Senior Advisor: TB and Global Fund Grant, Eswatini
- Dr. Stephen Macharia, Senior Advisor: TB and Global Fund Grant, Kenya
- Mr. Birru Shigut, Senior Advisor: TB and Global Fund Grant, Malawi
- Dr. Raymond Byaruhanga, Senior Advisor: TB and Global Fund Grant, Uganda
- Dr. Kingsley Ochei, Senior Advisor: Tuberculosis Diagnostic Network, Nigeria
- Mr. Rhehab Chimzizi, Senior Advisor: TB and Global Fund Grant, Zambia
