TB Control in India: Ramakrishna Mission’s contribution

Compiled and Edited by:
Swami Deshikatmananda

Ramakrishna Mission, R.K. Ashrama Marg, New Delhi

Pages: 253

Price: Deluxe Rs 300/- (US $ 15)
Paperback: Rs 250/- (US $ 10)

About the Book

Swami Vivekananda laid the foundation of Ramakrishna Mission in 1987. An outpatient clinic was set-up by the Mission to treat tuberculosis patients at a time when anti-TB chemotherapy was not yet established. Since the last several decades, the Mission has continued its relentless fight against tuberculosis through a network of modern hospitals and dispensaries located in various parts of the country.

This book enlightens the readers about immense experience gained by Mission through its grass root level work in tuberculosis control in a third world setting. 

The book is divided into five sections.
Section one, contains transcripts of speeches on topics such as India’s contribution to TB control, Glimpses and analysis of tuberculosis control in India, TB associated with HIV/AIDS and Glimpses of tuberculosis programme and research in India-yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Section two, has papers presented by eminent scholars in the seminar organized by Mission in 1998. A paper titled ‘Sociological aspects of TB-experiences at R. K. Mission TB Clinic’, provides vital information about tuberculosis control in urban settings.

Section three deals with research studies carried out by Ramakrishna Mission TB Clinic. An interesting paper ‘The role of nutrition in tuberculosis’ contributes to the on-going discussion about relationship between poverty and tuberculosis. It also highlights the useful role dietary supplementation can play in DOTS expansion and in reaching the poor and vulnerable.

Section four contains information about activities of RK Mission centres in TB control in various states. It provides important information from grass root level where field workers are grappling with TB control on a day-today basis.

Section five contains success stories of TB control. This year’s World TB Day slogan is ‘DOTS cured me-it will cure you too’. The inspiring stories of patients who overcame the most adverse and disadvantaged situations to overcome tuberculosis provide motivation. These stories can be used to reassure new patients that with determination and strict adherence to treatment regimens tuberculosis can be cured and can be eliminated as a public health problem from India.

The book draws from the experience of leading public health personalities of the country and is an indispensable tool for TB programme managers working at various levels, public health workers, policy planners and all those interested in TB control.