The Department of Health (DOH) has announced an ambitious plan to screen twelve million Filipinos for tuberculosis (TB) by the year 2026. This massive initiative is designed to significantly improve the detection of TB cases across the nation.
Leveraging Advanced Technology for Diagnosis
In a joint effort with the World Health Organization (WHO), the DOH revealed its strategy to maximize the use of cutting-edge medical technology. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa confirmed that the Philippines is already deploying ultra-portable AI-powered chest X-rays and WHO-recommended Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAAT). These tools are crucial for the rapid screening and accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis, allowing for quicker intervention.
A Nationwide Campaign for Treatment and Awareness
Beyond technological deployment, the campaign will be expanded to encourage individuals to seek and complete treatment. Secretary Herbosa detailed plans to broaden social and behavior change communication initiatives, ensuring they reach every barangay and purok. A key component of this effort is the TPTodo campaign, which is part of community-based health education caravans. These caravans emphasize the importance of taking TB preventive treatment (TPT) and recognizing the benefits of seeking early medical care.
The DOH's programs have garnered strong support from the WHO. Dr. Eunyoung Ko, the WHO Representative to the Philippines, stated that progress in the Philippines contributes to the global fight against the disease, noting, "We know what works, and we’re seeing some encouraging results here in the Philippines."
The Global and Local TB Burden
The urgency of this campaign is underscored by recent statistics. In 2024, an estimated 10.7 million TB cases occurred globally. The Philippines accounted for 6.8 percent of this global burden. This translates to approximately 625 Filipinos developing tuberculosis for every 100,000 people in the population, highlighting the critical need for enhanced screening and detection efforts.
