Race against TB: Lahore hosts major TB awareness camp at Expo Centre

In a vital public health initiative aimed at combating tuberculosis (TB), a free medical camp was held at the Pak Arab International Expo Centre, Lahore, on June 14 and 15. 

The camp was organised under the directives of Dr Zohaib, CEO Health Department Lahore, and executed by chest specialist Dr Farzand Ali, supported by medical professionals Mahira Bashir and Rana Rizwan, along with their dedicated health team.

The team conducted free chest X-rays and provided medications to the general public, prioritising early detection and awareness of pulmonary tuberculosis. 

The initiative was undertaken in the public interest to help mitigate the impact of TB, which continues to pose a grave health threat in Pakistan.

According to national health data, Pakistan is the fifth highest TB-burdened country in the world, with alarming annual figures—approximately 611,000 new TB cases, 348,276 existing cases, and around 34 deaths per 100,000 people. 

Particularly concerning is the rising number of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) cases, which are estimated at 16,000 annually.

With a population of 210 million, an estimated 1.5 million people in Pakistan currently suffer from tuberculosis. 

Despite medical advancements, delayed diagnosis, lack of awareness, and treatment gaps continue to fuel the spread of this preventable and curable disease.

Health officials emphasised that such camps play a critical role in educating the public, promoting early detection, and ensuring access to treatment, which collectively strengthen the country's fight against TB.