TB is a threat to Kenyans; let's stop it!

Stop TB Partnership Kenya is a non-governmental organization that advocates to stop tuberculosis in the country.  It is headed by Evaline Kibuchi who is the National Co-ordinator. Its vision is to have a healthy and prosperous Kenya free of Tuberculosis. The pre-launch meeting for Stop TB was hosted by the Minister for Public Health and Sanitation to discuss the need for a partnership to support the National Tuberculosis Partnership in August 2010. Stop TB was formed to respond to partners interests in working together with the National Tuberculosis Partnership to maximize efficiency through a streamlined partnership approach. 

Tuberculosis is the 4th largest cause of death in Kenya. It is caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis, it affects the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body. Kenya is ranked 15th out of 22 high burden countries in the world. It is ranked 4th in Africa behind South Africa, Nigeria and Ethiopia.  The risk of developing tuberculosis majorly increases among people with reduced immunity from diseases such as HIV/AIDS or Diabetes Mellitus. Other reasons include: Excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, smoking, long term use of medication such as steroids, living in poorly ventilated places and also a high risk is faced by the very young children and the very old people. 

Stop TB partnership is majorly involved in;

1. Advocate for increased resources and political commitment.

2. Create a social movement for public awareness, community mobilization and empowerment.

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3. Promote appropriate technical norms for TB prevention, care and control in Kenya at a national and county level.

4. Provide scientific and public health education and information about TB prevention, care and control for the public and policy makers.

5. Provide a framework for increasing participation in TB prevention, care and control for the public and policy makers.

Tuberculosis is preventable, treatable and curable and it should not be competing for resources with other chronic diseases like cancer. We can Stop TB now!