25 January 2010 - Geneva - The Stop TB Partnership today launched the TB REACH initiative and announced the first call for proposals.
The main objective of TB REACH is to promote early and increased case detection of infectious tuberculosis (TB) cases and ensure their timely treatment, while maintaining high cure rates within DOTS programmes. TB REACH will encourage the development and application of innovative, ground-breaking and efficient techniques, interventions, and activities that result in increased TB case detection, reduced transmission and prevention of the emergence of drug-resistant forms of TB. As suggested by its name, TB REACH will focus on reaching people who have limited or no access to TB services.
"For the first time we are launching an initiative devoted specifically to increasing case detection, while targeting people who have limited access to health services. We hope TB REACH will galvanize governments, organizations and affected communities to embrace innovative thinking and ambitious action to reach all people who need TB care," said Dr Marcos Espinal, Executive Secretary of the Stop TB Partnership.
Key information about TB REACH, eligibility criteria for applicants and information on how to apply for a grant are now available on its web pages. The deadline for submitting proposals for this first round is 5 March 2010. Eligible applications will be reviewed by an independent group of experts - the Proposal Review Committee - during March 2010. Results of the review will be made available to all applicants in April 2010.
"We wish to acknowledge the support of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) to this important initiative, which is critical for TB control," Dr Espinal said.
For more information, write to tbreach@who.int