Tuberculosis, or TB, is still one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the TB bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). Coughing, occasionally with sputum or blood, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, fever, and night sweats are signs and symptoms of active tuberculosis (TB). The lungs are the most commonly affected, and TB has the potential to harm the lungs and other organs severely.
In the Region, eleven thousand seven hundred ninety-One (11,791) TB cases have been notified and reported, with a total prevalence of 0.24%. Eight Thousand One Hundred Eleven (8,111) told are males, and Three Thousand Six Hundred Eighty (3,680) notified are females. The cured and treated success rate was 92.71% for 2020 based on the Region 12 DOH data.
Undernutrition is usually present in TB Patients, which leads to an active progression of TB Infection into active TB cases. Food instability and low general nutritional condition are significant contributors to the global burden of tuberculosis (TB) disease. When present in pregnant women, TB can lead to low birth weight, premature babies, and perinatal death. While mothers, on the other hand, hypertension and undernutrition are commonly present. Adequate food intake and weight gain during pregnancy are essential. Give proper nutrition to the mother and the baby to achieve sufficient growth and development for children.
Calorie-dense foods that are nutrient-rich can meet the rising metabolic demands of the TB patient and prevent further weight loss. Foods high in antioxidants make our body healthy and fight infections, such as bananas, cereal porridge, orange, mango, sweet pumpkin, carrots, guava, tomato, nuts, and seeds. Eggs, meats, and fish can be a great source of protein and B-Complex vitamins. These foods can be absorbed easily by the body and give you the required energy. Improving a TB patient's nutrient intake through education, counseling, food assistance, enhancing appetite, and food intake is always necessary. (KTP, AMF, RML)
