Tura, Oct 9: Undernutrition and tuberculosis (TB) have a bidirectional relationship, which is especially relevant in the Indian context. TB leads to weight loss, wasting and worsening of nutritional status. To reduce such burden amongst the patients, the office of District TB Officer, West Garo Hills District, distributed the nutritional food to 17 TB patients from financially challenged section of the society under Tikrikilla PHC.

These food baskets were donated by Dr. Methab Chandee A. Sangma, wife of Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad K Sangma.

The kits were handed over to the patient by Dr. Litha Sangma, District TB Officer, Dr. Thimonier Momin Medical Officer, and Dr. Khona, a retired Joint Director and an active social worker.

These kits were provided in loop with the recently launched TB health scheme known as “Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan” under the umbrella of “The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme” which aims to provide the much needed nutritional support to the patients who are suffering from TB disease.

The food basket will be given every month for 1 year so the patients can have a nutritional balanced diet. It includes add-on quality dal, chana, nutrela and protein biscuits which will help the patients in maintaining a balanced diet.

Dr. Litha told the beneficiaries on the importance of eating good and healthy food for one to get strong immunity in fighting against Tuberculosis. She also urged the patients to take the food and medicines on time and regularly so that they will be completely cured from TB disease. She advised the patients to avoid consumption of tobacco and alcohol so the medicine which they are taking can assist the body in fighting the disease.

Dr. Khona talked on the importance of personal hygiene and motivated the beneficiaries, treatment supporters and the community members to come together and support the TB patients so the district and the state as a whole can fight against Tuberculosis and live a TB free society.