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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, the programme helps people living with TB complete their direct observation of treatment (DOT) course, through visits from Red Crescent nurses, 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.”
For World TB Day 2009, the Kyrgyzstan Red Crescent produced a series of videos to show on local TV, using a footballer as a spokesperson to try and break down the stigma around TB and show that it is possible to make a full recovery from the disease. As the video says: “We can stop TB!”
Filling the social gap
The 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.”
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