The TB Crisis and Women: Why Gender Issues Matter More Than Ever, PgII

Challenges Faced by Women in TB Treatment

• Stigma & Under-Diagnosis:

  • Women with TB face social stigma, discrimination, and economic barriers.
  • Many avoid seeking treatment due to societal pressures and fear of exclusion.

• Financial Burden:

  • TB treatment requires long-term care, money, and nutrition.
  • Many women lack economic independence and support from families.

• Delayed Treatment:

  • Women are diagnosed late due to neglecting symptoms or prioritizing family responsibilities.

India’s TB Burden & Government Efforts

• India accounts for 27% of global TB cases, with 331,000 deaths in 2022 (23 per 100,000 population).

• National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP):

  • Focuses on early detection, treatment, and prevention.
  • Includes Nikshay Poshan Yojana, providing ₹1000/month for nutritional support to TB patients.
  • Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan – Aims at mobilizing community support.

Way Forward: Addressing Gender Inequities in TB Care

• Gender-Sensitive TB Programs: Tailoring awareness and healthcare interventions for women.
• Financial & Nutritional Aid: Expanding support under Nikshay Poshan Yojana.
• Community Engagement: Involving women-centric self-help groups & NGOs for better outreach.
• Healthcare Infrastructure: Strengthening diagnostic and treatment facilities in rural & marginalized areas.

Mains Mock Question:

"Discuss the gender-specific challenges in tuberculosis prevention and treatment in India. Suggest measures to ensure equitable access to TB care for women."