Chinese Medical Team Enhances TB Treatment in Tanzania’s Zanzibar
Chinese doctors have played a vital role in treating drug-resistant TB in Zanzibar, Tanzania, exemplified by Seif Hassan Mbarouk’s recovery. Their efforts include providing medical care, training local staff in advanced diagnostic techniques, and conducting community health campaigns. Despite a significant decrease in TB cases, ongoing challenges in detection and treatment highlight the necessity for sustained healthcare investment and public awareness initiatives.
Chinese medical teams have significantly contributed to fighting drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) in Tanzania, particularly in Zanzibar, where 25-year-old Seif Hassan Mbarouk recently celebrated World Tuberculosis Day. Diagnosed with drug-resistant TB five months prior and treated at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, Mbarouk credits his recovery to timely intervention from the Chinese doctors. His progress has also inspired hope among other patients and health professionals in combating TB.
Mbarouk began experiencing critical symptoms like persistent cough and headaches, initially misdiagnosed as pneumonia at a local health center. Despite weeks of ineffective treatment, he opted for help from Chinese doctors, who correctly diagnosed him. Mbarouk emphasizes the importance of early action for TB symptoms, stating, “Don’t fear the disease. With proper medication, TB is curable.”
Rashid Hassan Ali, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, confirmed the prevalence of TB in Zanzibar, highlighting the issue of late diagnoses in remote health centers. The Chinese medical team has enhanced local healthcare by sharing expertise and introducing innovative diagnostic technologies like bronchoscopic diagnosis.
Chen Wei, leader of the Chinese medical team in Zanzibar, noted that Tanzania has made strides against TB due to governmental and international support. However, challenges such as low detection rates and a shortage of medical resources still hinder effective treatment. He noted that drug-resistant TB complicates cases due to improper antibiotic use, worsening health outcomes.
The Chinese team’s role extends beyond treatment; they conduct training for local healthcare workers and organize community health campaigns to foster awareness about TB. Chen discussed differences in treatment between Tanzania and China, where disease prevention and healthcare access is more robust.
Recent WHO reports indicate that Tanzania’s TB incidence has decreased by 40% from 2015 to 2023, a notable achievement. However, the road to eradicating TB remains challenging, requiring renewed global commitment and investment in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The 2024 campaign theme urges a commitment to ending TB, focusing on prevention, early detection, and comprehensive healthcare support.
The collaboration between Chinese medical teams and Tanzanian healthcare has notably advanced efforts in controlling drug-resistant tuberculosis in Zanzibar. Despite progress, challenges such as low detection rates and unmet healthcare needs persist, underscoring the need for continued investment and public health initiatives to combat TB effectively. Community awareness, early diagnosis, and treatment adherence are crucial to achieving long-term success against this pervasive disease.
Original Source: english.news.cn
