TB and DOTS: a human rights perspective

Health and human rights are inextricably linked. Factors that violate human rights are likely to result in deprivation and ill-health. TB leads to disability and death thus negatively impacting human rights, more so in poor and marginalised groups. On the other hand DOTS strategy as exemplified by India's TB control programme serves to protect human rights by increasing political commitment, equitable access to quality services and enhancing accountability. By adequate treatment and cure of TB patient, it not only serves the individual but also community by preventing spread and emergence of resistance to available drugs.