LocationsUNDP partners with the Global Fund and national stakeholders to eradicate Tuberculosis and HIV in Belarus, focusing on developing systemic solutions to enhance the quality of care for affected individuals.
Ending Tuberculosis by 2030: Our Shared Goal
March 24, 2023
According to WHO, one-third of the global population is infected with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.
Photo credit: UNDP in Belarus
The goal of eradicating tuberculosis by 2030 was first outlined in the Agenda for Sustainable Development. Today, the disease remains a pressing global issue. Those particularly at risk of contracting tuberculosis include individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic diseases, other respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly.
Tuberculosis extends beyond a medical issue, carrying significant social and economic consequences. Among them is the exclusion of affected individuals and the stigma associated with the disease. People living with tuberculosis often face a reduced quality of life. Treatment involves costly medications, and resource demands on tuberculosis care facilities place a significant burden on national budgets.
The incidence of tuberculosis should be considered in relation to a country's development, as social and economic conditions influence the disease's dynamics. Prevention and treatment of tuberculosis are national priorities in the Republic of Belarus, as outlined in the State Programme on the Health of the Nation and Demographic Security for 2021–2025.
Belarus ranks among the 30 countries with the highest burden of rifampicin-resistant and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, accounting 49% of registered cases. These strains are more difficult to treat and pose high risks to patients, healthcare workers, and health services. Each year, the country reduces tuberculosis mortality and increases the number of patients who successfully complete treatment by introducing new medications and treatment methods.
Investments in mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on tuberculosis prevention have led to innovations in diagnosis.
Photo credit: UNDP in Belarus
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted tuberculosis control efforts in Belarus. The shift in healthcare priorities required the redistribution of resources and medical personnel, resulting in a decrease in tuberculosis detection rates. Nevertheless, Belarus was among the first European countries to introduce screening for tuberculosis in COVID-19 patients.
Experience in combating tuberculosis shows that consolidating intersectoral and interagency efforts is crucial for progress at both national and international levels. UNDP in Belarus acknowledges the significance of the infection by incorporating it into the Country Programme Document until 2025 and supporting the implementation of the State Programme on the Health of the Nation and Demographic Security for 2021–2025. Additionally, UNDP assists in establishing the strategic, organizational, legal, and financial frameworks necessary to end the pandemic.
In 2022, UNDP supported Belarus in integrating WHO recommendations into clinical protocols for tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment through its project with the Country Coordinating Committee and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Global Fund). The Ministry of Health's working group assessed the legal environment to eliminate discrimination against tuberculosis patients and promote their social integration. Additionally, a draft National Action Plan was developed to enhance interagency cooperation in combating tuberculosis.
Since 2013, UNDP in Belarus has leveraged the Global Fund's grants to purchase laboratory equipment and consumables for tuberculosis diagnosis, including rapid testing. During this period, new and repurposed treatments for drug-resistant tuberculosis and shorter treatment regimens were implemented.
Photo credit: UNDP in Belarus
With the support of the Global Fund, UNDP continues its efforts to eliminate tuberculosis and HIV in Belarus, placing special emphasis on the sustainability of assistance provision and its effectiveness during crises. The Agency focuses on supplying high-quality, free medications, introducing shortened treatment regimens, improving diagnosis and prevention, as well as supporting local NGOs and vulnerable populations.
UNDP will support the Republic of Belarus in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the target of eliminating the global tuberculosis epidemic by 2030. The WHO's End Tuberculosis Strategy approved by the World Health Assembly in 2014, aims for a 90% reduction in tuberculosis mortality and an 80% reduction in incidence by 2030 compared to 2015 levels.
Continuous efforts, investments, and a collaborative approach are essential for accelerating progress toward health-related SDGs and ensuring that no one is left behind.
