Stop TB Partnership

Education and Raising awareness

TB is the leading cause of death among HIV/AIDS patients. In fact, TB is responsible for one in four AIDS deaths. Combined with high rates of TB/HIV co-infection, this has resulted in misunderstandings about how these two conditions interact; many in this community believe that a patient diagnosed with TB must also be HIV positive. Particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where HIV/AIDS continues to represent a large burden of disease, TB suspects can be reluctant to go for testing for fear of also testing HIV+. The BABA Foundation based in Kenya has helped reduce stigma of TB and HIV patients through awareness and education. The project aimed to address common misconceptions regarding TB/HIV co-infection while simultaneously supporting those who are co-infected.

The BABA Foundation was able to reach hundreds of people with accurate TB/HIV messages through TB support clubs, community meetings, and community TB ambassadors. Additionally, local decision makers participated in a sensitization meeting which resulted in widespread pledges to increase support for TB/HIV activities in their communities. These stakeholders also delivered a community driven petition card to the district Minister of Health advocating for better access to TB/HIV services.

Thanks to the BABA foundation, there has been an increase in TB screening and a better understanding of TB/HIV.