Tuberculosis: India renames its programme; WHO endorses India developed tech-TrueNAt MTB

On January 17, 2020, Government of India renamed its National TB Control Programme to National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme. Also, the WHO (World Health Organization) recently endorsed on technology developed by Indian scientists to detect the disease called TrueNat MTB in terms of accuracy.

Renaming

GoI has renamed the programme to National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme. The name change is in line with the goal of India in eliminating the disease by 2025. This is five years ahead of the goal of United Nations Sustainable Development target.

This will give big thrust to people working towards elimination of tuberculosis. Also, with the WHO stating that TruNat MTB, the molecular test developed by Indian Scientists has greatest accuracy, has increased India’s confidence in eliminating the disease as planned

TRueNat MTB

The TrueNat test a new molecular test that can diagnose Tuberculosis in one hour. The test uses polymerase chain reaction to detect bacteria. The device that conducts the test is battery operated.

India’s plans

The TrueNat MTB kit is to be available at community health centres as a first step. Slowly, it is to be extended to the primary health centres as well. There are around 5,500 to 6,000 primary health centres in the country.

Leprosy and Polio

Previously renaming was also done for leprosy and polio programmes. In 1983, National Control Programme was renamed to National Leprosy Eradication Programme. Also, in case of Polio, National Programme for Control of Polio myelitis was renamed to Polio eradication Programme.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2020