Early case finding and correct management of leprosy and TB, inclusive MDR-TB, in the project areas with special emphasis to gender and to

For the 2017-2021 program, the Damien Foundation (DF) will continue to focus on the early detection and correct treatment of leprosy and Tuberculosis (TB) patients, including the multi-drug resistant (MDR) TB patients. This will be achieved through an increased collaboration with the National Program, the private sector and the community. Special attention will be paid to organise efficient TB detection, treatment and follow-up in the industrialised areas bordering the DF working area. Mainly women are employed in the garment industries and therefore belong to the most vulnerable key populations, which necessitates actions set-up conjointly and in synergy with the private sector and other stakeholders. Because of its renowned expertise in the field of MDR-TB, the DF will collaborate with the National Program and operational Non-governmental (NGOs) for the training and expansion of the highly effective Bangladesh regimen endorsed by World Health Organization (WHO) to other areas in the country. The unique set-up, in combination with the expertise acquired over the years, make the DF Bangladesh an ideal partner to conduct operational research and studies. This will take place in further collaboration with the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp and the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung disease (UNION).