We also asked Figueroa about the prevalence of tuberculosis in persons with HIV, or living with AIDS. There are reports of an increased number of TB related deaths. TB is known to be especially deadly in persons who have an impaired immune system.
Dr. Figueroa says it's not that there are more cases of TB - just that there is a greater rate of detection:
Jules Vasquez
"Is there any rise in the number of TB cases related to HIV infection?"
Dr. Ramon Figueroa, CEO, Ministry of Health
"Rise, I think we have been detecting more cases. I wouldn't say it's a rise. Remember now we also have the capability for quick diagnosis through equipment now that we have the gene expert - that we have procured and distributed in some of the region. So we have a better diagnostic capability. I wouldn't say we have an increase in the numbers. I think we have been detecting more cases."
Email
Print