Tuberculosis

Introduction

The Zambia National TB Programme (NTLP) is a pivotal public health initiative within the Ministry of Health (MOH) established to combat tuberculosis (TB) and leprosy in Zambia. The program’s primary objective is to provide comprehensive TB care and control through effective case management, community involvement, and data-driven strategies to ensure high-quality health services and improved treatment outcomes.

A Brief History of the Program

Established in 1964, the NTLP began as a stand-alone program within the MOH, merging with the Leprosy Control Programme in 1980. This integration saw the appointment of TB/Leprosy Officers at various administrative levels, facilitating a framework for technical support and case management. In 1993, the program further integrated with the HIV/AIDS and STI programmes, addressing the dual epidemics of HIV and TB, and underwent significant reforms to enhance data management and decentralized control activities.

When the Surveillance Program Started and National Coverage

The surveillance program commenced alongside the establishment of the NTLP, with case notification and treatment outcomes being systematically recorded. Full integration into the primary health care level in 1997 initially disrupted national data reporting. However, the reconstitution of the National TB Working Group in 1999 reinstated strong surveillance practices. Today, the program ensures comprehensive national coverage through a decentralized model supported by provincial and district health offices.

What the Program Includes

The NTLP encompasses hospital-based and community-based approaches to TB and leprosy care. Health facilities at various levels provide diagnosis and treatment, with community volunteers playing a crucial role in supporting patients and ensuring adherence to treatment regimens. The program’s strategies include the Daily Observed Therapy Short Course (DOTS) and partnerships with community-based organizations to bolster treatment supervision.

Some Key Achievements

Key achievements of the NTLP include the successful implementation of the DOTS strategy, integration of TB and HIV/AIDS care, and the establishment of a comprehensive surveillance system. The program has also strengthened its Central TB Unit and improved collaboration with international partners, enhancing the overall quality and reach of TB services across Zambia.

Graphs and Data Visualization

The NTLP utilizes various data visualization tools, including quarterly cohort analysis, to track treatment outcomes and program effectiveness.

TB Notifications By Sex(New& Relapse) 2023

Notifications by Province(New & Relapse), 2023

Figure 1. Trend of TB notifications 2017-2022

Figure 2. Adult vs Paediatric TB notifications (new and relapse)-2019 – 2022

Figure 3. The gap between estimated incidence and notifications (new and relapse)

Figure 4. DR-TB notifications and treatment success rate: 2015 to 2022

Relevant Documents

Relevant documents include annual reports, policy guidelines, and research publications that provide detailed insights into the NTLP’s operations, achievements, and strategic plans. These documents are essential resources for stakeholders and researchers interested in the program’s activities and outcomes.

Contact Details and Links to Program Websites

For more information, stakeholders can contact the NTLP through the Ministry of Health’s official website. Key contact details include the NTLP’s central office and regional coordinators. Additional resources and updates can be accessed through the MOH’s online platforms.

Key Research Using Surveillance Data

The NTLP’s surveillance data has been instrumental in various research studies aimed at understanding TB epidemiology, treatment outcomes, and the impact of integrated TB and HIV/AIDS interventions. Notable research projects have explored drug-resistant TB trends, community-based treatment strategies, and the effectiveness of different public health interventions in controlling TB in Zambia.

ZNSP