Mabuza concerned over TB infection rate

Deputy president, David Mabuza, said according to the results of the latest tuberculosis (TB) prevalence survey report, TB prevalence is 1,6 times higher in men than in women. According to the reports, nearly 40% of all infected individuals do not know that they have TB.

“The SANAC men’s sector has done commendable work through various platforms in an effort to sensitise men about the importance of fostering health-seeking behaviour. Until we reach and change men’s perspective in every setting, we will never win the battle against TB. Out of the estimated 390 000 people infected with the disease, only 60% have been diagnosed. Mabuza called on all South Africans to rally behind national efforts to end TB, and scale up the national response through urgently finding, initiating and retaining TB clients in treatment and care.

“We should also work hard to regain those who have fallen by the wayside. Each and every one of us has a role to play in the fight to end TB,” Mabuza concluded.