Alliance for Combating TB in Bangladesh Project
RDRS Bangladesh is implementing the project titled "Alliance for Combating TB in Bangladesh." The project is being implemented in partnership with icddr’b and USAID. This project aims to reduce the burden of tuberculosis (TB) among children in the Rangpur division. Despite rising notification rates, childhood TB remains significantly underreported in this region.
The specific objectives of the project include achieving at least a 6% childhood TB detection rate among total TB patients by 2026, developing the capacity of service providers and stakeholders in childhood TB, and establishing a referral mechanism for effective screening, identification, and treatment. To achieve these objectives, RDRS Bangladesh conducts various activities such as basic staff training, active case finding within healthcare facilities, orientation sessions with Graduate Practitioners (GPs), inception meetings, integration with the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) program, and awareness sessions in schools and for RDRS federation members.
Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), the project anticipates challenges such as the potential transfer of trained doctors, closure of community-based DOTS centers on weekends and holidays, sustaining partnerships with private healthcare providers, and potential drug shortages. The primary target community includes Upazila Health Complexes, District Hospitals, Medical Colleges, Schools, and Federation Members.