Cambodia Deploys Teams for Free Tuberculosis Screening and Treatment in Ratanakiri

The Cambodian Tuberculosis Association (CATA) is deploying teams to health centers, villages, and communities in Ratanakiri province to provide free tuberculosis screening and treatment for 18 days, from July 1st to July 18th, 2026. However, this year has seen a decrease in the number of citizens receiving screening services compared to previous years, coinciding with a decline in the detection rate of new TB cases. Dr. Suong Serivathana, a doctor serving at CATA, told "Kampuchea Thmey" that compared to the early years of outreach, the number of newly detected TB patients has significantly decreased. Last year, more than 20 new TB patients were found per health center, but currently, it is only 2 to 6 cases. To increase access to screening services, the team has changed its strategy. Instead of waiting for people to come to the hospital, they are going directly to health centers, villages, and communities to reduce the difficulty of travel for citizens and make it more convenient for them. The screening specifically targets high-risk groups, including individuals over 45 years old, people living with HIV, diabetic patients, those suffering from malnutrition, and individuals who live closely with or have had contact with people who have had tuberculosis. Dr. Suong added that citizens experiencing symptoms such as coughing for more than two weeks, unusual weight loss, persistent low-grade fever, night sweats, or swollen lymph nodes in the neck should seek examination promptly. This is because some forms of tuberculosis may not show clear symptoms and can silently damage the lungs. Following diagnosis, all TB patients will receive free treatment. The treatment requires taking medication regularly for six months under the supervision of healthcare professionals at the health center. Dr. Suong Serivathana emphasized that if patients adhere to the instructions and complete the full six months of medication, they can achieve complete recovery. Ms. Kanhya, who previously had tuberculosis, shared that she took medication for six months as per the doctor's instructions. This year, after a follow-up examination, no recurrence of the disease was detected. She encouraged all patients to patiently complete their medication for the full duration, despite experiencing some side effects like drowsiness or fatigue, to ensure recovery. Doctors have stated that some TB cases do not cause coughing or exhibit clear symptoms, yet the lungs may already be severely damaged. Therefore, chest X-rays and specialized examinations are crucial methods for early detection and timely treatment to reduce transmission and deaths from tuberculosis. Doctors also urged citizens in Banlung City, Ta Veng District, Verun Sai District, Virakchey District, and health center areas to attend their health check-ups according to the schedule set by the team. This will allow for timely diagnosis and prevention of community transmission. By: Khiev Chab