Toward strengthening active case finding for ending tuberculosis in India

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Disease Control

Background:

• Active case finding (ACF) is essential for tuberculosis (TB) control, particularly in India where low health-seeking behaviors hinder disease transmission interruption.
• Current ACF strategies within India's national TB control programs have room for enhancement to improve effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a strategic roadmap for improving active case finding (ACF) for tuberculosis (TB) in India.
• To propose a shift from a siloed public health approach to a comprehensive learning surveillance system for TB case detection.

Main Methods:

• The proposed roadmap is grounded in India's current national strategic plans for public health monitoring and TB case identification.
• It emphasizes defining operational requirements for predictive capabilities, feedback mechanisms, and learning within the surveillance system.

Main Results:

• The study outlines a framework for transforming ACF into a dynamic learning surveillance system.
• Key requirements include robust processes, optimized infrastructure, enhanced human resources, and improved inter-programmatic collaboration.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening ACF through a learning surveillance approach is crucial for advancing TB elimination goals in India.
• Effective implementation requires a comprehensive strategy focusing on predictive analytics, continuous learning, and integrated health sector collaboration.