©InfoAlthough TB is curable, the stigma faced by those with the disease is astounding. The Kyrgyzstan Red Crescent is addressing the issues through advocacy, community-based activities and communications that combat fear and misinformation.
This includes raising awareness of the disease through classes in schools, leaflet distribution and radio announcements in markets and workplaces.
As well as the educational aspect of the programme, Red Crescent nurses help people living with TB complete their treatment through home visits, which include social and psychological support and counselling.
High poverty levels exacerbate the issue of TB. Roza Shayakhmetova, secretary general of the Kyrgyzstan Red Crescent, says: “TB is not just a medical problem, it’s also a social problem. The current social situation in the country contributes towards the spread of the disease.”
Filling the social gap
©InfoThe Red Crescent co-ordinates its work with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and its social approach to TB complements the medical approach of the state.
Jelena, MoH representative in Kara Balta, says: “We work very closely with the Red Crescent and I have a lot of respect for the organisation; while we hold dull roundtable meetings the Red Crescent is always doing something dynamic to reach people, such as putting on a play in the community.”
The Red Crescent TB programme is getting results. Of the people the Red Crescent worked with in 2010, 72 per cent completed their treatment and 20 per cent continued their treatment into 2011. Roza says: “Thanks to the efforts and support of the British Red Cross and AstraZeneca, we are making a difference in Kyrgyzstan.”
See below for stories of the people we are helping: