• Welcome to TB Association of India

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Postal Address

3, Red Cross Road, New Delhi - 110001. INDIA.

Phone Number

– 011-23715217

– 011-23711303

Email Address

tbassnindia@yahoo.co.in

Myths vs. Facts: Changing the Narrative Around TB

Myths vs. Facts: Changing the Narrative Around TB

Misinformation leads to TB stigma, creating unnecessary fear and discrimination that prevent people from seeking treatment. Many individuals believe outdated myths that contribute to social isolation and delays in diagnosis. Dispelling these myths with accurate information is crucial in ensuring timely medical intervention and reducing stigma.

AAS is breaking these myths in communities through activities that engage and interact with people to minimise misinformation. The AAS campaign comprised a short video competition, nukkad natak, a radio talk with a TB survivor on Prasar Bharti, taking the pledge to eliminate TB against stigma, and advocating with communities to combat myths and fact-check the solutions.

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Myths vs. Facts Changing the Narrative Around TB

Here are some common myths AAS has successfully minimised by engaging with lakhs of people across India:

  1. Myth: TB is hereditary.

Fact: TB is an airborne bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Solution: Educate communities about how TB spreads and emphasize that it is not passed down genetically but through close, prolonged exposure to an infected person.

  1. Myth: TB patients should be completely isolated.

Fact: TB is only contagious in its active form and primarily spreads in poorly ventilated spaces. Once treatment begins, the risk of transmission significantly reduces within weeks.

Solution: Promote early diagnosis and proper medical intervention while educating the public that TB patients can safely interact with others after starting treatment.

  1. Myth: TB only affects the poor.

Fact: While poor living conditions can increase the risk of TB, the disease can affect anyone, regardless of economic status. Even well-nourished individuals in urban areas can contract TB if exposed to an infected person.

Solution: Address social discrimination by promoting awareness that TB does not discriminate based on economic status and ensuring equitable healthcare access.

  1. Myth: TB treatment is ineffective.

Fact: Modern TB treatments, including Directly Observed Treatment and Short-course (DOTS), have a high success rate when followed correctly. Completing the entire course of medication is essential for recovery.

Solution: Encourage adherence to TB treatment plans through patient education, community support, and healthcare provider engagement to ensure a full recovery.

Education is a significant way to end these misconceptions and ensure early diagnosis. Schools, workplaces, and community centers must actively spread accurate information so TB patients feel encouraged to seek care without fear of judgment. Health authorities and social influencers must also play a role in raising awareness about TB prevention and treatment.

By replacing fear with facts, we can build a supportive, stigma-free environment where those affected by TB feel safe to access the care they need. Knowledge can save lives. #KnowTheFacts