There is a huge surge in tuberculosis cases in the city in the past two years. Information sought under the RTI Act has revealed that the number of people suffering from tuberculosis has gone up to 10,523 in 2010 from 10,121 in 2009.
There is a huge surge in tuberculosis cases in the city in the past two years. Information sought under the RTI Act has revealed that the number of people suffering from tuberculosis has gone up to 10,523 in 2010 from 10,121 in 2009.
S Ward, which comprises Bhandup and Kanjurmarg, has recorded 1,553 cases of TB, highest across all wards, in 2010 as against 671 cases in 2009. While F-north ward that consists of areas like Sion, Dharavi and Matunga continues to be a high risk ward with 1,337 cases in 2010, as against 1,272 and 858 cases in 2009 and 2008 respectively.
“We are in a habit of firefighting only when the situation gets out of hand. Why can’t we undertake preventive measures from the beginning? Tuberculosis is an infectious disease. Rising number of TB cases shows that our health machineries are not up to the task,” Nitai Mehta, founder trustee of Praja Foundation, said.
Doctors blame the densely-populated city as the reason for the spreading of the disease. Dr Yatin Dholakia, secretary and technical advisor, Maharashtra State Anti-TB Association, said: “In Mumbai more and more TB cases are being reported because of increasing population density. TB is an airborne disease. Close proximity to an infected person leads to infection. Even the public transport system is densely populated.”
Experts said those between 15 and 30 years are most vulnerable. According to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) records, about 60% of TB-affected are between 15 and 45 years of age.
Dr Ramraje Nagsen, HoD of the TB and chest department at JJ Hospital, said: “Normally, after taking medicines for a few weeks, people think they are better and discontinue it. This should be avoided in TB cases. They should adhere to the treatment, follow up with doctors and in case of complications, should immediately report it.”
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