Nakuru County is leveraging advanced technology in the battle against Tuberculosis (TB), incorporating AI-enabled systems to enhance diagnostics and treatment efficiency. Dr. Neimah Barasa highlighted the importance of these technologies in identifying asymptomatic cases, while the health department has expanded facilities to provide better TB care. Recent initiatives aim to address testing challenges, particularly in the context of co-infection with HIV/AIDS.
Nakuru County has adopted automated technology to combat Tuberculosis (TB), leading to improved screening, diagnosis, and treatment processes, ultimately reducing community transmission. According to Dr. Neimah Barasa, the County TB, Leprosy and Lung Disease Coordinator, advanced technology such as AI-enabled X-ray machines, GeneXpert, and TrueNat nucleic acid amplification tests enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment pathways.
Dr. Neimah emphasized that nearly 50% of TB patients show no classic symptoms, making advanced technology vital for early diagnosis. The county boasts 637 health facilities, with 250 designated as TB treatment sites and 102 diagnostic centers, showcasing substantial progress in TB management during the learning exchange with health workers from Homa Bay County.
In Nakuru, eight TB sample referral sites utilize cutting-edge technologies, including AI-enabled X-ray machines and GeneXpert systems. Dr. Neimah stated that Nakuru County Teaching and Referral Hospital was among eight nationwide to initiate the AI-enhanced Digital Chest X-ray program, aligning with WHO recommendations expected to uncover an estimated 40% of undetected cases.
The WHO endorsed the TrueNat rapid molecular test four years ago, enabling swift and accurate TB detection, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The TrueNat system operates independently of electricity supply and indicates Rifampicin resistance within an hour, ensuring prompt treatment adjustments for resistant strains.
GeneXpert diagnostics are considered the gold standard for identifying TB, particularly drug-resistant forms which traditional methods often miss. Dr. Neimah noted that reliance on older diagnostic technologies frequently resulted in missed TB cases and delayed treatment outcomes.
The digital AI-enabled X-ray system at Nakuru County Teaching and Referral Hospital was financed through collaborations with the National TB Programme and AI provider Qure.ai. This technology automates interpretations of X-ray diagnostics, expediting the identification and treatment of TB, enhancing service delivery throughout multiple surrounding counties.
Roselyn Mungai, the County Executive for Health, emphasized that these advanced tools significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced patient wait times. Training for medical staff on utilizing this technology has been implemented to maximize its effectiveness in TB management.
Health officials from Nakuru and Homa Bay shared insights on TB care practices, emphasizing essential areas such as diagnostics, community care, and monitoring systems. They addressed strategies for integrating TB services with public and private sectors to elevate healthcare delivery.
The fight against TB in Africa faces numerous challenges, including socioeconomic factors and the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which heightens individual susceptibility to TB. In Kenya, TB remains a leading cause of morbidity, with substantial implications for the productive age demographic of 15 to 44 years.
The prevailing TB burden in Kenya is intensified by the concurrent HIV epidemic. Recent demographic surveys estimate 12,000 new TB infections and 32,000 annual deaths, although this indicates a decline from previous years, reflecting ongoing healthcare improvements.
The integration of advanced AI technology into Nakuru’s TB management efforts marks a significant advancement in healthcare delivery. It improves diagnostic capabilities, facilitates early intervention, and enhances overall TB care, addressing the critical challenge of underdiagnosed cases. Collaborative efforts and innovative tools may ultimately help mitigate the burden of TB in the region, ensuring that more individuals receive appropriate treatment in a timely manner.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
