Tuberculose au Sénégal

Tuberculosis, despite being curable, continues to affect millions worldwide, and Senegal is no exception to this alarming reality. With a concerning incidence rate, the disease poses significant challenges to public health and the local economy. This article explores the current situation of tuberculosis in Senegal, the factors contributing to its spread, and the efforts to combat this persistent epidemic. We will also discuss innovative solutions that help your loved ones, no matter where they are in the world, to access adequate treatment despite the financial hardships that hinder their recovery.

An Overview of Tuberculosis Globally and in Africa

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

It primarily spreads through the air when infected people cough or sneeze, releasing contaminated particles into the environment.

This disease mainly affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain.

Historically, tuberculosis was often linked to poverty, unsanitary conditions, and poor nutrition, which are significant risk factors.

Over time, the development of antibiotic treatments in the 1940s helped control the spread of the disease, but the emergence of drug-resistant strains has reignited concerns.

According to the WHO, tuberculosis remains a serious public health concern, having caused the deaths of 1.3 million people worldwide in 2022, including 167,000 who were also affected by HIV.

Globally, it ranks as the second leading cause of death from an infectious disease, just behind COVID-19, and ahead of AIDS.

The year 2022 saw about 10.6 million new cases of tuberculosis, affecting millions of people of all ages: 5.8 million men, 3.5 million women, and 1.3 million children. Although this disease is present in all countries, it is nonetheless preventable and, most importantly, curable.

However, the situation remains concerning with the rise of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), posing a threat to global health security.

In 2022, only two out of five patients with drug-resistant tuberculosis had access to adequate treatment, highlighting the need for improved access to care.

The goal to end the tuberculosis epidemic by 2030 is part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, representing a crucial challenge for global health.

However, according to a new report, “about 8.2 million new cases of tuberculosis were diagnosed in 2023; the highest number ever recorded since WHO began its global tuberculosis monitoring in 1995,” surpassing COVID-19 in terms of mortality.

Slower Progress in Africa

In Africa, the fight against tuberculosis is hampered by numerous obstacles, including inappropriate screening practices.

Most countries on the continent continue to use sputum smear microscopy, a less sensitive method compared to the rapid diagnostic tests recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

This gap in case detection contributes to increased disease transmission, as a significant number of affected individuals remain undiagnosed.

Furthermore, universal access to drug susceptibility testing remains a significant challenge. There is a considerable gap between the estimated number of tuberculosis cases and those actually identified.

This finding is particularly concerning in a context where the introduction of new treatments has been very slow, hindered by various factors, while the region strives to expand access to effective preventive treatment.

The fragility of health systems, coupled with poverty and insufficient nutritional support, exacerbates the tuberculosis burden on the continent.

Tuberculosis infections are often exacerbated by social and economic determinants such as malnutrition, diabetes, and HIV infections. These factors require a multisectoral approach for effective and timely intervention.

Despite the severe consequences of tuberculosis, the disease is not yet a top public health priority in many African countries.

Governments fund only 22% of the necessary resources to provide adequate tuberculosis control services, leaving 44% of needs unmet.

Managing Tuberculosis in Senegal

Clearly, Senegal adds to the concerns regarding tuberculosis, with a rate of 117 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, according to World Bank data.

This means that each year, the country anticipates the emergence of 117 new cases of tuberculosis for the same population segment.

Unfortunately, of all detected cases, 420 people have died from the disease, resulting in a fatality rate of 17 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, as highlighted by the coordinator of the National Tuberculosis Control Program (PNT).

The most affected areas are Dakar, Thiès, and Diourbel, where the prevalence reaches 59, 57, and 46 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively.

Conversely, the regions of Sédhiou, Kaffrine, and Matam show the lowest prevalences, with only 5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in Sédhiou and Kaffrine, and 6 for Matam.

One of the main barriers to curbing the spread of the disease is the lack of diagnosis, which can either be nonexistent or made far too late.

As a result, a large number of missing cases are sought throughout the Senegalese region, even though many prefer to hide.

Poverty: A Major Factor in the Lack of Treatment

Today, there are many “lost to follow-up” cases.

These are patients who one day stop going to their health post, disappearing without a trace in their community.

Many stop taking their daily pills, essential for treating their back pain and the persistent cough caused by tuberculosis.

Sometimes diagnosed for several years, they repeatedly abandon their treatment, returning for a few months before relapsing again.

The cause of these dropouts? Poverty and the difficulty of finding work.

In Senegal, according to the latest data from the ANSD, the employment rate in Senegal is at 40%, with significant disparities between regions. In urban areas, the employment rate is 44.3%, while it is 33.6% in rural areas.

Digging deeper into the figures, it is noted that only 27.1% of women are employed, compared to 53.3% of men.

In the disadvantaged rural areas of Senegal, thousands of people are pushed to migrate to large cities like Dakar in hopes of working and saving some money.

However, when these seasonal workers fall ill with a contagious disease like tuberculosis, the risk of transmitting the bacillus increases significantly.

This explains the emergence of “missing cases” and the urgency to act to provide adequate healthcare in Senegal.

What Actions and Organizations are Involved in Tuberculosis Care?

Given the magnitude of the tuberculosis challenge, Senegal has implemented several actions and organizations dedicated to fighting this disease.

The National Tuberculosis Control Program (PNT) is at the heart of these efforts. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, this program coordinates screening, treatment, and awareness activities nationwide.

It works to strengthen health infrastructure and improve access to care, especially in rural areas where tuberculosis prevalence is higher.

One of the strategic axes of the PNT is partnering with NGOs and international organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

These collaborations provide essential technical and financial support. Thanks to these funds, Senegal has been able to develop awareness campaigns to encourage the population to get screened and follow prescribed treatments.

Furthermore, the country also benefits from regional and international initiatives aimed at strengthening the fight against tuberculosis. For example, the African Union Tuberculosis Control Program (AUSTP) aims to eradicate tuberculosis on the continent by promoting screening and treatment strategies adapted to local realities.

Despite these efforts, funding remains a crucial challenge. Although progress has been made, the need for stable and sustainable financial resources is imperative to ensure the continuity of treatments and the expansion of awareness programs.

Remittances for Tuberculosis Care in Senegal: Where Do We Stand?

Senegal has made significant strides in financial inclusion, largely thanks to the rise of mobile telephony and digital financial services.

These innovations provide Senegalese people with money transfer options that go well beyond traditional banking channels.

Mobile wallets, in particular, have transformed the financial landscape, making transactions more accessible and secure, even for those without a bank account.

Traditional banks remain a reliable option for sending and receiving funds. They offer considerable security due to their strict regulation. However, high transfer costs and processing delays can be problematic, especially in emergencies, such as for immediate health needs.

Moreover, the requirement to have a bank account and comprehensive documentation can be a barrier for many Senegalese.

On the other hand, online services and money transfer apps like Wise, WorldRemit, or PayPal offer convenient and often less expensive alternatives.

These platforms allow for quick and simple transfers, but they require the recipient to also have an account on the same application, which can be limiting.

Moreover, their operation is not specifically tailored to healthcare needs, leaving donors uncertain about how the funds sent are used.

What are the solutions for facilitating tuberculosis care in Senegal?

Despite existing initiatives, there remains a pressing need for financing solutions that ensure not only access to care but also transparency in the use of resources.

While actions are collective and international organizations are involved, there is still a part that each of us can contribute, especially if you have loved ones in Senegal.

How to Send Care to Your Loved Ones?

Today, you may see distance as a major obstacle to the possibility of sending care to your loved ones back home.

Sending money across several countries? With many fees and without even the assurance that your money will be used for medical treatments? It is entirely normal to consider this a risk.

But imagine the possibility of ensuring your family has access to quality medical care, without the hassles often associated with traditional money transfer systems, which are fraught with many uncertainties.

With KimboCare, it is possible to make a tangible difference in the lives of your loved ones, especially in terms of care for tuberculosis. The platform allows you to purchase prepaid health credits, specifically intended for medical services.

In just a few clicks, you can designate your loved ones as beneficiaries, thus ensuring them direct access to the care they need.

Each credit is used exclusively to cover their medical expenses, giving you peace of mind knowing that your support is allocated to actual and essential care.

KimboCare collaborates with carefully selected health facilities to guarantee your loved ones quality care, without delays or hidden fees.

As soon as you make a transfer, your loved ones receive a notification via SMS or call, informing them of the healthcare providers to contact, thus facilitating their access to the necessary services.

How to Access Healthcare While Living in Senegal?

Access to diagnosis and prevention is crucial, as many people perceive tuberculosis as a mere illness, unaware that it can be deadly.

Not only for oneself but also for one’s family and those around them.

First and foremost, education about the disease and raising awareness are key elements for better management of tuberculosis.

By discussing your needs, you also encourage those around you to take their health seriously.

Sharing information about tuberculosis, its treatments, and possible solutions like KimboCare can encourage others to get diagnosed, which is crucial to avoid severe complications.

Most importantly, your health is paramount. And indeed, solutions are available.

Thanks to KimboCare, a platform that has helped hundreds of thousands of families receive treatment to date, you can obtain appropriate care despite financial difficulties.

It’s a way for your loved ones to support you and accompany you in treatment delivered by certified health professionals.

FAQ

1. What is tuberculosis and how does it spread?

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily spreads through the air when infected people cough or sneeze, releasing contaminated particles. While tuberculosis mainly affects the lungs, it can also impact other parts of the body.

2. What are the symptoms of tuberculosis?

Common symptoms of tuberculosis include a persistent cough (sometimes with bloody sputum), chest pain, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fever. If you or someone you know back home exhibits these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a health professional promptly.

3. How is tuberculosis diagnosed in Senegal?

Tuberculosis is usually diagnosed through clinical examinations, tuberculin skin tests, and sputum analysis. In Senegal, the National Tuberculosis Control Program (PNT) works to improve access to screening tests, although challenges remain regarding the sensitivity of the methods used. Unfortunately, many cases remain undiagnosed due to a lack of resources and still ineffective prevention.

4. What are the treatment options available for tuberculosis in Senegal?

Treatment for tuberculosis in Senegal primarily involves a combination of antibiotics administered over several months. Medical follow-up is crucial to ensure adherence to treatment and prevent the development of resistant strains. Patients may receive free care in health facilities, but many, especially those living in rural areas, lack financial means and discontinue their treatment.

5. How can I help my loved ones access tuberculosis care in Senegal?

You can support your loved ones by using platforms like KimboCare, which allows the purchase of prepaid health credits specifically for medical services. This ensures that the money sent is directly used for their health needs, thereby facilitating their access to quality care. Also, make sure to encourage awareness and education about tuberculosis in your community to reduce stigma and promote early screening.