100-Day TB Elimination Campaign

The 100-day intensified tuberculosis (TB) elimination campaign commenced on December 7, 2024. This initiative targeted 455 intervention districts across 33 States and Union Territories in India. Its primary aim was to screen high-risk individuals for TB. The campaign focused on vulnerable groups including diabetics, smokers, alcoholics, and those living with HIV.

Screening Methods and Technology

The campaign employed chest X-rays to identify subclinical or asymptomatic TB cases. This method was enhanced using artificial intelligence (AI) for better accuracy. Individuals showing TB symptoms were also screened. The goal was to uncover hidden cases that would typically go undetected.

Notification Statistics

As of February 22, 2025, over 5.1 lakh TB notifications were reported in India. Of these, more than 3.5 lakh notifications originated from the 455 intervention districts. This was after screening over 10 crore individuals. The campaign aimed to reduce diagnostic delays and accelerate case detection.

Comparison of Notification Data

From December 7, 2024, to March 6, 2025, a total of 6,35,035 TB cases were notified. Comparatively, 6,34,815 cases were reported during the same period in the previous year. The slight increase of 44,585 cases cannot be solely attributed to the intensified campaign.

Limitations of the Campaign

Despite the campaign’s ambitious goals, several limitations were noted. Only 3.8% of the targeted high-risk population had undergone screening using chest X-rays by February 22, 2025. The campaign relied on just 836 portable X-ray vans, which were inadequate for widespread screening.

Challenges in Early Detection

The campaign’s new strategy aimed to identify TB cases early. However, the limited number of X-ray machines hindered effective implementation. Additionally, the AI-assisted chest X-ray interpretation tool was not widely used, raising concerns about its efficacy.

Historical Context of TB Notifications

TB notifications have shown a gradual increase over the years. In 2021, 21,35,830 cases were reported, rising to 26,18,499 cases in 2024. This trend suggests that while the campaign may have identified additional cases, the overall increase in notifications is a continuing issue rather than a direct result of the campaign alone.

Future Implications

The campaign’s 100-day duration is insufficient to achieve the goal of TB elimination by 2025. Continuous efforts, resources, and strategic planning are necessary to combat TB effectively in India.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of artificial intelligence in modern healthcare diagnostics.
2. Discuss the significance of early detection in infectious disease control.
3. What are the challenges faced by the healthcare system in addressing tuberculosis? Critically discuss.
4. Analyse the impact of public health campaigns on disease notification rates. Provide suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of artificial intelligence in modern healthcare diagnostics.

1. AI enhances diagnostic accuracy through pattern recognition and data analysis.
2. It assists in interpreting complex medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs.
3. AI algorithms can identify diseases earlier than traditional methods.
4. Integration of AI can reduce the workload on healthcare professionals.
5. Challenges include the need for regulatory approval and concerns about data privacy.

2. Discuss the significance of early detection in infectious disease control.

1. Early detection leads to timely treatment, reducing disease transmission.
2. It helps in identifying asymptomatic cases that would otherwise go unnoticed.
3. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.
4. It is crucial for controlling outbreaks and minimizing public health risks.
5. Public awareness and access to screening are essential for effective early detection.

3. What are the challenges faced by the healthcare system in addressing tuberculosis? Critically discuss.

1. Limited resources and infrastructure hinder widespread screening and treatment.
2. Stigma associated with TB affects patient willingness to seek help.
3. Diagnostic delays due to inadequate testing facilities and technologies.
4. Challenges in reaching high-risk populations effectively.
5. Funding and policy inconsistencies affect the implementation of TB programs.

4. Analyse the impact of public health campaigns on disease notification rates. Provide suitable examples.

1. Public health campaigns raise awareness, leading to increased testing and notifications.
2. They can mobilize resources and community engagement for better health outcomes.
3. Examples include the intensified TB campaign, which aimed to detect hidden cases.
4. Success is often measured by the increase in notifications post-campaign.
5. However, sustained efforts are necessary to maintain and improve notification rates.