Shillong, Jan 24: In his hometown of Lower Lumparing, Andrew Marbaniang stood before a crowd and shared his story of overcoming tuberculosis (TB), offering hope and encouragement. “I’m living proof that TB is curable,” he said. “If I can beat it, so can anyone.”
Andrew’s fight against TB was tough, leaving him physically and emotionally exhausted. But thanks to timely diagnosis and free government treatment, he made a full recovery. Now, as a TB Champion, he dedicates his time to urging others to seek help and complete their treatment. “The medicines work, but only if you take them properly,” he stressed, encouraging anyone with symptoms like persistent coughing, fever, or weight loss to get screened.
Andrew’s story was the highlight of a TB awareness program held on January 23, 2025, by the District Tuberculosis Office, East Khasi Hills. The event aimed to educate residents about TB, its symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. B.R. Garod, Medical Officer at the Lumparing Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC), explained that TB is a preventable and curable disease. She outlined symptoms like night sweats, chest pain, and fatigue, urging people to prioritize their health and seek screening without fear.
Dr. Bayarilin Shanpru, District TB Officer, spoke about the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA), India’s mission to eliminate TB by 2025. She introduced the Nikshay Mitra initiative, which allows donors to support TB patients with food baskets to improve their nutrition during treatment. “TB treatment is free at all government facilities, and with proper care, recovery is possible,”
she said.
The program is part of the 100-Day Intensified TB Campaign, which focuses on reaching vulnerable populations with advanced diagnostic tools and community outreach. With an 85% treatment success rate in the district, efforts are ongoing to improve awareness and reduce delays in treatment.
Local leaders, healthcare workers, and residents attended the event, all united in the fight for a TB-free future.
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