In the last quarter of 2021, the Culion Foundation and the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) embarked on a groundbreaking mission in the province of Laguna. Their first-ever TB-Active Case Finding (TB-ACF) program aimed to combat tuberculosis (TB) by prioritizing vulnerable groups and reaching communities despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. With unwavering dedication and a commitment to public health, the initiative screened an astounding 11,350 patients across 13 municipalities, leaving a lasting impact on the province’s healthcare landscape.
With TB remaining a pressing health concern in the Philippines, the Culion Foundation and PBSP’s initiative represented a bold step forward in tackling the disease at its roots. By adopting a proactive approach and reaching out to vulnerable communities, the organizations demonstrated their commitment to improving the health and well-being of Laguna’s residents.
Central to the success of the TB-ACF program was the prioritization of vulnerable groups. The Culion Foundation and PBSP recognized the importance of targeting seniors, people living with HIV (PLHIV), immunocompromised individuals, and smokers, who are at higher risk of contracting TB. By directing their efforts towards these groups, the initiative aimed to identify active TB cases early and provide timely treatment, thereby reducing the disease’s impact on the communities.
The TB-ACF program in Laguna was not merely a screening effort; it was a resounding success that left a positive and lasting impact on the province. By screening 11,350 patients across 13 municipalities, the initiative demonstrated its reach and effectiveness in reaching communities in need. Beyond the numbers, the program empowered individuals to take charge of their health and well-being, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for public health.
As the Culion Foundation and PBSP continue their journey in the fight against TB and other communicable diseases, the legacy of their first TB-ACF program in Laguna will endure. The initiative’s resounding success reflects the unwavering commitment to public health and the determination to create a healthier future for the people of Laguna and the entire Philippines.