Test more people to reduce new TB deaths, study finds

A study by UCT authors shows that new TB tests can help reduce the number of new TB cases and deaths. Illustration: Lisa Nelson

Many people who report with TB symptoms at South Africa’s public sector clinics do not receive TB tests. Testing more of these people is one of the most effective things we can do to reduce rates of TB disease and death, according to a major new modelling study.

While South Africa has made substantial progress against tuberculosis (TB), we are not on track to meet key targets set for 2030. This is according to a new modelling paper published in the journal Global Health Action.