Mkikute understands that post-TB lung disease (PTLD) presents a significant and enduring health challenge globally, particularly in regions with a high tuberculosis (TB) burden. Despite the successful completion of TB treatment, a considerable number of individuals continue to experience chronic respiratory symptoms and complications due to PTLD. Symptoms of PTLD include persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and recurrent respiratory infections, which significantly impact individuals’ quality of life and productivity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 50 million people worldwide suffer from PTLD each year. In Africa, where TB prevalence is high, the burden of PTLD is substantial, exacerbating the region’s existing health challenges. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive interventions and support to address PTLD on a global scale.
To wrap up the challenges faced by TB patients, Mkikute has received technical assistance and financial support from the Global Fund and LHL through MKUTA to open and operate 4 pulmonary rehabilitation centres. By actively engaging community health volunteers, Mkikute has trained volunteers as a way to strengthen community-based pulmonary rehabilitation interventions, improve access to care, and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with post-TB lung disease in our communities. The key role of Mkikute-trained volunteers in these centres includes but is not limited to:
◦ Community Screening: Community health volunteers play a crucial role in identifying individuals at risk of post-TB lung disease through community-based screening programs. This included conducting door-to-door visits, health camps, and community meetings to raise awareness and screen individuals for respiratory symptoms and previous TB history.
◦ Education and Awareness: Community health volunteers provide vital education and awareness sessions on post-TB lung disease, its symptoms, complications, and preventive measures. Engaging with community members through interactive sessions, posters, and educational materials to ensure understanding and promote early recognition of symptoms has been one of the key educative avenues deployed.
◦ Referral and Linkages: Community health volunteers have facilitated timely referrals and linkages to healthcare facilities for individuals suspected or diagnosed with post-TB lung disease. This has been achieved by guiding community members to access diagnostic services, treatment, and follow-up care, ensuring continuity of care and support throughout the healthcare continuum.
◦ Supervision of Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Community health volunteers oversee community-based pulmonary rehabilitation programs for individuals with post-TB lung disease. This has led to the organization and supervision of rehabilitation sessions, including exercises, breathing techniques, and education on self-management strategies, ensuring adherence and effectiveness of the program.
◦ Psychosocial Support: Community health volunteers provide essential psychosocial support to individuals coping with post-TB lung disease offering empathetic listening, counselling, and emotional support, addressing fears, stigma, and mental health concerns related to the disease, and empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively.
By actively engaging community health volunteers in these roles, Mkikute aims to strengthen community-based pulmonary rehabilitation interventions, improve access to care, and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with post-TB lung disease in our communities.