What role does stigma play in the effectiveness of tuberculosis control strategies for prison populations in the Philippines?

Document Type

Letter to the Editor

Source Title

Journal of Public Health

Publication Date

2024

Abstract

Dear Editor,

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a critical public health challenge globally, with marginalized populations, including People Deprived of Liberty (PDL), experiencing disproportionately high rates of infection. In the Philippines, the government’s current strategy for tuberculosis-infection prevention and control (TB-IPC) in prisons has come under scrutiny for its perceived inadequacies, particularly in addressing the unique needs of PDL.

Recent critiques, such as those by Padecio et al. 1 highlight that the Philippine government’s approach to TB-IPC is often reactive and generalized. This critique is not just a local concern but reflects a broader issue observed globally: how public health systems handle TB within high-risk, confined settings like prisons. Scientific studies reveal that PDL have a higher prevalence of TB compared with the general population, a disparity exacerbated by overcrowded conditions, limited healthcare access, and systemic neglect.

The focus on TB among PDL is scientifically original as it addresses a specific and underserved area of public health research.2 By highlighting the high incidence of TB in prisons, this issue has global implications, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions in similar settings worldwide. This concern resonates with global health strategies that advocate for equity in health access and targeted interventions for marginalized groups.

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Note

Abstract only

Keywords

Tuberculosis—Philippines; Tuberculosis—Prevention

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