CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Health (DOH) is calling on the public to take advantage of free tuberculosis (TB) diagnostic and treatment services available in government facilities

“Until now, we are still in the battle of that silent epidemic,” said Dr. Wellaflor Kindom-Brito, head of the Infectious and Communicable Diseases Cluster of DOH in Northern Mindanao.

Kindom-Brito said the Philippines ranks fourth globally in drug-susceptible TB cases and second in drug-resistant TB, placing it among the countries with the highest TB burden.

To strengthen its response, the DOH has adopted the use of the molecular-based GeneXpert test, a rapid diagnostic tool recommended by the World Health Organization that can also detect drug resistance.

“That is why in terms of TB diagnostics, we are advanced,” she said, adding that the region has 50 GeneXpert testing sites, mostly located in rural health units.

Although the test can cost between P8,000 and P12,000 in private hospitals, it is available for free in government-run health centers.

“I really hope that people would access these free GeneXperts,” Kindom-Brito said.

TB primarily affects the lungs, but the disease can also spread to other parts of the body because it is transmitted through the air.

“Ang TB nga sakit, although primarily affected niya ang lungs, it can also affect the other organs of the body,” she said.

(TB is a disease that primarily affects the lungs, but it can also affect other organs of the body.)

Kindom-Brito emphasized the need for early detection and timely treatment, stating that lung damage caused by TB cannot be reversed. She also expressed the need to improve public awareness to encourage individuals to seek care and reduce stigma.

“All of this is provided by the government for free,” she reiterated, referring to ongoing support from the national government and partner organizations such as the Philippine Business for Social Progress and the Global Fund, particularly in addressing drug-resistant TB.

The DOH continues to urge the public to consult health providers at the first signs of symptoms. (Henniequel Shayne Acobo/PIA-10)