Tuberculosis Association will be launching pan India Campaign “ Action against Stigma” on 12th March 2025 which seeks to provide effective TB patient-support to the marginalized population by launch of education campaigns through mass media channels etc.

Tuberculosis Association along with State TB Associations has been working inter-alia on combating the stigma faced by TB patients since 1939. It has decided to launch an intensive campaign ” Action against Stigma” this year, apart from its normal activities, to  coincide with World TB Day celebrations on 24th March this year. Integral to this pan -India programme would be the active participation of all stakeholders such as State TB Associations, NGOs, institutions like IMA HQrs/ State Branches of IMA, medical Colleges and others.

The stigma and myths associated with contracting TB, approaching informal healthcare providers for treatment and fear of losing jobs during illness are critical factors delaying patient access to recognized health care providers/ chest clinics. There are many instances of family resistance to treatment, social prejudices of isolating TB affected individuals leading to community transmission of drug resistant TB in urban areas.

The Campaign “ Action against Stigma” seeks to provide effective TB patient-support to the marginalized population in States by launch of education campaigns through mass media channels, webinars with stakeholders, funding outreach activities for TB patient support by State TB Associations, making a short film / videos addressed for de-stigmatization of TB, and partnership with TB Champions and TB – Mitras and other NGOs, and community stakeholders.

With this campaign, TAI would be raising awareness of people, voluntary organizations and medical community that early detection of TB and its treatment and safe habits would reduce vulnerability to TB.

Outcomes of the Campaign:

By de-stigmatizing TB, there would be enhancement of screening, case detection and successful treatment of TB patients leading to decline in mortality of patients.

Activities to be undertaken during the Campaign:

Partnership with TB Champions/ survivors and TB – Mitras, NGOs, and other Medical Colleges/ Institutions in the programme,
Preparation of posters/ booklets with the theme Action against Stigma for community involvement.
Competition of short videos about De-stigmatization of TB among medical colleges/Institutes.
Involve local dignitaries & media personnel in the programme to enhance visibility for the Campaign.