Student Overcomes Multi-Drug Resistant TB, Advocates for Stigma Reduction
Chikondi, a student in Lilongwe, Malawi, successfully completes rigorous treatment for Multi-Drug Resistant TB, urges authorities to reduce stigma and discrimination.
LILONGWE, MALAWI — Chikondi (pseudonym), a determined and resilient young woman, has emerged victorious in her battle against multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB), a diagnosis that initially left her shocked and questioning the source of her ailment, writes Meclina Chirwa.
In an exclusive interview with AfricaBrief, Chikondi revealed her journey from despair to hope, highlighting the urgent need to combat stigma and discrimination surrounding TB patients.
In 2021, Chikondi, a community development student at a private university, received a devastating diagnosis of MDR TB.
"Honestly, I was very shocked," she recounted.
"How could I get this dangerous form of TB? My doctor at Bwaila Hospital said I needed a second-line MDR-TB treatment regimen, involving medication every day for ten months." Despite the emotional toll, Chikondi was determined to face her treatment head-on.
Living in Area 3, Lilongwe, Chikondi confessed that prior to her diagnosis, she had associated diseases like TB with poverty and never envisioned herself as a patient.
"This is a lesson learned for me," she expressed.
"TB has taught me to love everyone regardless of their status. I promise to be an advocate of TB."
Chikondi praised the health workers at Bwaila Hospital for their exceptional care. "My doctor at Bwaila changed everything for me," she commended.
"They treated me like a human being, recognising my treatment plans and side effects. Every patient wants that recognition."
Despite her progress, Chikondi emphasised the pressing need to combat stigma and discrimination against TB patients.
"I faced a lot of shame and stigma from people because of my TB," she said.
"I want people to be able to say they have TB without worrying about the consequences."
Tuberculosis, a curable yet preventable disease, remains the world's top infectious killer. Ex-TB patients like Chikondi play a pivotal role in advocacy, providing essential perspectives to accelerate the TB response and ensure widespread prevention and care.
Malawi has achieved significant milestones in its fight against Tuberculosis. Richard Mvula, Public Relations Officer for the Lilongwe District Health Office, highlighted the progress.
"We have made great strides in TB control, reducing TB and HIV co-infection, and expanding diagnostic and registration sites," he stated.
Dr. James Mpunga, the National TB and Leprosy Elimination Programmes Manager, expressed optimism about the country's efforts.
"As a country, we are on the right track in fighting TB," he affirmed. Over the past decade, Malawi has witnessed a remarkable 58% reduction in TB incidence, with reported cases declining from 338 per 100,000 in 2010 to 141 per 100,000 in 2020.
Chikondi's story serves as an inspiration and a call to action, urging society to unite against TB stigma and ensure that every individual receives dignified and compassionate care.