Mental Health Impact of TB
Context
A recent study on tuberculosis (TB) has highlighted its affects on mental health beyond the physical toll, impacting the quality of life and also hindering the recovery process.
Relevance:
GS-02 (Health)
Mental Health Impact of TB:
- It was found out that up to 84% of the TB patients face mental health illnesses.
- Some experience prolonged depression and often suffer from hopelessness, despair, and impaired decision-making.
- The recent finding also highlights the bidirectional relationship between mental health and the immune system, where poor mental health, including stress and depression, weakens the immune system.
- A major concern associated with this is that the current TB care protocols screen for diabetes and HIV, but not mental health issues.
Solutions for Psychological Support:
- Digital therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and app-based solutions show promise, especially in resource-limited settings.
- Community health workers and DOTS providers can play a crucial role in delivering mental health support.
- Support groups and awareness campaigns can help reduce stigma and provide informational aid to families and patients.
- The government should integrate mental health screening into TB programs and also train more psychiatrists and expand referral pathways for specialised care.
Tuberculosis:
- Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is a treatable and curable disease with a long history dating back to 3000 BC in Egypt.
- Spread through the air when infected individuals cough or sneeze. Tuberculosis commonly affects the lungs but can also impact other organs.
- MultiDrug Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and Extensively Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (XDR-TB) pose significant health threats.
- The BCG vaccine, developed in 1921, plays a crucial role in TB prevention. Initially introduced in India in 1948, BCG became part of the National TB Control Programme in 1962.
- Besides TB protection, the vaccine safeguards against respiratory infections and mycobacterial diseases and serves as immunotherapy for certain cancers.
- Interestingly, BCG’s efficacy varies geographically, demonstrating higher efficiency in countries farther from the equator.
Government Schemes for TB Patients:
- National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP): Aims to eliminate TB in India by 2025 through early diagnosis, complete treatment, and addressing the social determinants of TB.
- Nikshay Poshan Yojana: provides nutritional support to TB patients, offering a financial incentive of INR 500 per month during treatment.
- TB Harega Desh Jeetega Campaign: Focuses on community engagement, awareness, and mobilisation to end TB.
- Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP): Includes the BCG vaccine to prevent TB among children.
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