Health officials in Bolgatanga have called for increased respect, empathy, and community support for people living with tuberculosis (TB) as part of activities marking World TB Day 2026.
The observance, held on March 24, was under the theme: “We can end TB: powered by primary health care, innovation and committed communities.”
Tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. Although the disease is treatable and curable, patients often face stigma and discrimination driven by fear, misinformation, and social prejudice.
Health experts warn that such discrimination can lead to social exclusion, loss of employment or educational opportunities, and even poor treatment within healthcare settings. These challenges, they say, can negatively affect patients’ mental health, delay treatment, and undermine efforts to control the disease.
Catherine Adongo, a nursing officer at the Bolgatanga Municipal Health Directorate, urged the public to treat TB patients with compassion and dignity.
“Treat TB patients like your own family members—with empathy, patience, and encouragement. Listen to their concerns and fears without judgment and help reduce their feelings of isolation by spending quality time with them,” she said.
Alhaji Yahuza Seidu, sub-municipal leader at the Kalbeo Clinic, also advised community members to support TB patients in adhering to their medication schedules to ensure successful treatment outcomes.
Francisca Adongo, the Municipal Health Promotion Officer, emphasised that kindness and understanding are critical in reducing stigma.
“Treating TB patients with kindness and understanding helps reduce stigma and discrimination, fostering a supportive environment that is crucial for effective TB control and community health,” she said.
The officials shared these insights during an interview on Bolga FM’s Tingmaalgo Sanga programme on March 25, 2026.
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