LocationsTackling Tuberculosis in Kyrgyzstan: a collaborative effort
October 13, 2023
Beishebayev Bakyt Askerovich, TB doctor is talking with Ulukman Daryger NGO staff
In collaboration with governmental and non-governmental organizations, UNDP is making strides in combating tuberculosis (TB) in Kyrgyzstan—a disease that remains a formidable challenge to the global public health system. To illustrate, the WHO reported 2.2 million new cases of TB worldwide in 2021.
With support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, UNDP is making a significant impact in battling the disease within Kyrgyzstan. In early 2023, the project started working on the prevention and treatment of TB among key population groups in Karakol. Based at the non-governmental organization "Ulukman Daryger," the project actively seeks TB among contact people and the general population, identifying suspected cases and motivating people from key population groups to pursue further examination and treatment in medical institutions if needed.
Founded in 2000, "Ulukman Daryger" aims to enhance population health via free access to medical and educational programs, addressing public health service needs and preventing various diseases, including HIV and TB. It collaborates closely with the Regional Centre for Tuberculosis Control and leading TB specialists in the Issyk-Kul region, including Beishebayev Bakyt Askerovich.
Bakyt Askerovich Beishebayev, a graduate of the Medical Institute (KGMA) in 1987 and subsequent residency, has dedicated his career to fighting TB. Inspired by his father, Beishebaev Asker Beishebaevich, an honoured doctor of the Kyrgyz Republic, Bakyt chose to specialize in TB.
"Today’s TB patient demographic is challenging, encountering resistant and sensitive forms that complicate and prolong treatment. Many patients discontinue treatment; we seek these individuals, collaborate with other physicians, locate relatives, and persuade patients to complete their treatment. Timely TB detection is crucial—the sooner it's identified, the quicker the patient can recover," shares Bakyt Askerovich.
Bakyt Askerovich notes NGOs like "Ulukman Daryger" for their vital assistance in identifying and working with patients from key population group.
Ulan Tursunbayev, Executive Director of "Ulukman Daryger," notes that while the societal stigma toward people with TB is not as prevalent as that towards people living with HIV, it is sufficient to deter people from seeking medical help.
"Our role extends beyond finding people from key population groups. It's also about helping them navigate through their fears. TB can be prevented and cured. Social workers locate these people, assist with treatment adherence, and encourage them to initiate treatment at medical institutions," expresses Ulan.
In the six months since the inception of the UNDP project "Effective HIV and TB control in the Kyrgyz Republic" in partnership with "Ulukman Daryger," TB specialists, and the Regional Center for Tuberculosis Control, 710 people —closely associated with TB patients and from key groups—were screened. Sixty-nine underwent examinations and eight TB cases within communities were identified.
Those grappling with multiple resistant forms of TB receive free treatment through a grant from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.
