The Division of Tuberculosis Reports Rise in TB Cases in Thailand, Urges Screening for Risk Groups to Accelerate "End TB" Plan

Addressing the challenges of combating tuberculosis in Thailand, Dr. Phalin Kamolwat explains, "TB remains a persistent issue in Thailand, necessitating ongoing proactive screening campaigns. The disease's lengthy incubation period, ranging from two weeks to even 5-10 years, complicates detection as many infected individuals are asymptomatic. Chest X-rays are crucial for spotting abnormalities, marking the starting point in identifying and treating TB cases. Once lung irregularities are detected, we immediately conduct sputum tests to confirm infection, followed by a 6 – 8-month drug regimen for treatment, which will cure TB. Prioritizing screening as a long-term national agenda will help us detect more cases, bringing us closer to our goal of eradicating TB."

Modern innovations are significantly improving patient screening efficiency. A significant one is the compact and portable digital X-ray device, equipped with an AI processing system. This device enables medical teams to conduct community-based screenings swiftly. Each examination takes just a minute, yet its accuracy rivals that of the larger X-ray machines found in hospitals. Dr. Phalin Kamolwat explains, "The machine reports any lesion detected, leading to a sputum test for the patient. If TB is confirmed, treatment can begin immediately. Using these portable X-ray units in high-risk areas significantly boosts screening efficiency. Recently, the Division of Tuberculosis received support from the Global Fund to fight TB, enabling us to acquire 16 portable machines and distribute them to various hospitals to enhance TB screening."