Building a Healthier Tomorrow: TB Success in Mozambique

At a glance

In three years, Mozambique significantly improved TB Preventive Treatment (TPT) for people living with HIV (PLHIV), increasing coverage from 41% to 89%. This lifesaving intervention, supported by CDC and the Ministry of Health, is crucial for TB elimination and will help reduce TB cases and deaths in Mozambique and around the world.

A young man checking-in with a “cough officer” at a health facility.

The challenge of TB and HIV

A young man in a red hoodie checking-in with a “cough officer” at a health facility.
A young man checking-in with a “cough officer” at a health facility.

In 2023, TB remained the leading cause of death among PLHIV, who are 16 times more likely to develop TB. When combined with HIV treatment, TPT can prevent TB disease and reduce TB deaths among PLHIV by 80%.

In Mozambique, both TB and HIV burdens are alarmingly high. This dual epidemic poses a significant threat to the U.S. and to global health security. Despite Mozambique’s introduction of TPT for PLHIV in 2007, only 40% had received a full course of treatment by March 2021. Recognizing this gap, CDC and partners rallied together to support the Government of Mozambique in implementing a comprehensive strategy to increase access to and completion of TPT, reducing TB transmission and improving health outcomes.

Innovative interventions drive success

Staff at a referral center in Mozambique.
Staff at a referral center in Maputo City, Mozambique.

From , CDC and partners adopted a comprehensive approach to increasing TPT coverage. This included training healthcare providers, strengthening data collection systems, and reinforcing the implementation of patient-centered services. These services included a short course of TPT and three-month medication dispensing, aligned with the dispensing of HIV medication. These initiatives improved screening and ensured that people could easily access and complete their treatment. The results speak volumes:

  • Enrollment surge: The number of PLHIV enrolled increased by 35%, reaching over 1.6 million people.
  • Coverage increase: TPT coverage skyrocketed from 42% to 89%, surpassing the national goal.
  • Completion rates: Completion rates rose significantly from 81% to nearly 89%, reflecting improved treatment completion among children and adults.
"The community is more aware than ever about TB prevention; we're seeing fewer cases because people are getting treated before they become seriously ill."

- Healthcare Provider in Mozambique

CDC and partners continue to train healthcare staff on regular screening for TB symptoms, support the government in updating and implementing TB screening guidelines using the latest technology, and expand access to TPT nationwide.

"This tremendous achievement in TPT coverage is the fruit of coordinated efforts among stakeholders and consistent monitoring of healthcare providers compliance to guidelines and patient's treatment adherence."

- Alexandre Nguimfack, CDC Mozambique HIV Treatment Lead

Implications for global health security

Man wearing red vest standing in front of seated group of people.
CDC-trained health worker sharing information about TB to members of the community. © Ricardo Franco

Mozambique’s success contributes significantly to global health security. By reducing TB incidence among PLHIV – evidenced by a nearly 25% decrease – Mozambique is supporting the achievement of global TB elimination targets.

CDC’s involvement has been pivotal. Through partnerships with local governments and ministries of health around the world, over 9 million people globally have initiated and completed TPT. This collaboration saves countless lives and helps ensure that health threats, such as TB, do not cross borders.

A safer tomorrow

Ultimately, the fight against TB is more than just eliminating a disease; it is about building healthier societies that can thrive despite public health challenges. The results from Mozambique’s success with TPT serve as a reminder with determination, innovation, appropriate resources, and collaboration, significant advancements can be made toward achieving global health security.

Together, the U.S. and other countries have the power to transform lives through accessible and impactful healthcare solutions as they strive to eliminate TB in the U.S. and worldwide. By working closely across communities, sectors, and borders, CDC paves the way for a healthier future, free from TB and HIV, and a more prosperous world for generations to come.

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Content Source:
Global Health Center