
Supported by the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP) and the Royal Society for Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTMH), the event brought together childhood and adolescent TB survivors and theirparents, representatives from the National Leprosy and Tuberculosis Control Programme (NLTP) at the Ministry of Health, health professionals, researchers and other stakeholders to discuss and focus on translating current research into practical improvements in the long-term health and well-being of individuals affected by TB.
Dr Esin Nkereuwem, a Clinical Research Fellow at MRCG at LSHTM and the Principal Investigator of the project, emphasised the importance of continued care beyond the completion of TB treatment. "This meeting is an essential forum to address the health challenges that children, adolescents, and their families face even after TB treatment is completed. It also highlights the research on Childhood TB Sequel being conducted at MRCG at LSHTM," he stated.
Ongoing care and support for these children is critical after the treatment is completed, and MRCG at LSHTM has been a vital partner to national stakeholders.
Mrs Marie Gomez, Acting Programme Manager for the National Leprosy and Tuberculosis Control Program (NLTP) at the Ministry of Health, commended the contributions of the MRCG at LSHTM. "We sincerely appreciate MRC Unit The Gambia, and other partners, in leading initiatives that improve the outcomes for children and adolescents. This workshop showcases these research findings, which offer vital insights into managing the long-term effects of TB among this vulnerable group."
Mariama Barrow, a TB survivor, shared insights of her challenging journey with the illness. She emphasised that the support from her healthcare team and family was essential for her recovery. “Despite the significant lifestyle changes and disruptions to my education, I learned to stay strong and prioritise my health. I want to encourage anyone facing similar health challenges that recovery is possible with the right treatment and support," she commented.
The Stakeholder workshop provided a valuable opportunity for participants to share knowledge, share lessons, discuss challenges, and collaborate on strategies to improve the long-term health and well-being of TB survivors, especially children and adolescents.
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