Stop TB Partnership

Community Supporters Make the Difference

By Bharat Bahadur Khadka - Multi-Dimensional Resource Center (Nepal)

A resident living in a modest hut in the remote rural area of the Bhainse village of Ritthepani, Mr. Resham Bahadur Syangtan, although showing traditional and persistant symptoms of TB infection, refused consultation and a check up in a local health post until last June 2011. Instead of seeking urgent medical attention at a health facility, he emphasized treatment by traditional practices with “Dhami Jhakri” and “Devi Devata”. After an intensive session with MRC Nepal motivators and local health volunteers, when he reached a critical condition with extreme weight loss and loss of appetite, he was convinced to seek assistance and consulted with the local health post and hospital.

After his chest examination and sputum smear test, Mr. Syangtan was found TB positive in July 2011. Mr. Syangtan in his own words expressed his gratitude to the MRC Nepal staff and Stop TB Partnership/WHO for granting him another chance at a new life with his wife and 3 children. He also explained that he gained weight and recovered the energy to return to work and provide for his family. Additionally, Mr. Syangtan belongs to the disadvantaged ethnic minority of poor who do not have food security, which makes it even more difficult to support 3 young children and his wife. Mr. Syangtan stated that his TB case finding not only granted him a new life, but also granted a livelihood and education for his young children. His wife is very happy expressing her husband is recovering well and is a regular patient in the DOTS program.