This document summarizes a presentation on early tuberculosis (TB) detection efforts among vulnerable groups in Ukraine. It discusses establishing screening and testing programs within 36 NGOs serving populations like sex workers, injecting drug users, and men who have sex with men. Key activities included training NGO staff, implementing screening questionnaires, collecting sputum samples on-site, and establishing referral pathways to healthcare facilities. Preliminary results showed improved access to TB services through the collaboration between NGOs and healthcare. However, motivation for clients to undergo TB testing remained low. Moving forward, over 75 NGOs will incorporate active TB detection and more training is needed to encourage clients to get tested and complete treatment if diagnosed.

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Early detection of tuberculosis in NGOs working
with vulnerable groups in Ukraine
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Epidemiology
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Incidence TB Incidence TB/HIV mortality TB

3. Social structure of TB patients in 2014 (%)
www.aidsalliance.org.ua
3
20,4
56,0
12,3
10,7
Organized contingents
Unemployed of working age
Retired
Socially disadapted population groups

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Background
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In 2013 Alliance Ukraine, introduced services for the early
detection of tuberculosis as a pilot among risk groups in the
HIV "harm reduction" program.
36 NGOs were included to implement the pilot.
Purpose: to decrease TB prevalence and mortality rate
among MARPs through early detection and timely
unhampered access to medical services.
The target groups of the project are FSWs, IDUs and IDU
partners, MSM and most-at-risk adolescents.

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Project Description
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Preparation:
Established contacts with HCF, signed
agreements on cooperation
Conducted trainings on TB issues for NGOs
employees
Developed routes of clients in cases of
suspected TB
Implementation:
Screening questionnaires for early
TB symptoms
Sputum collection on sites
Psychologists work in projects for adherence to
examination and treatment
Introduced infection control measures in NGOs

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Results
6

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Conclusions
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1. Screening questionnaire for early and active TB case findings have
become a routine practice in NGOs.
2. Cooperation in the field of TB detection at an early stage between health
care and NGOs allowed the most vulnerable groups to improve access to TB
services.
3. For the first time infection control measures were implemented in NGOs
4. Motivation of clients to undergo detection of TB remains low
5. Starting from 2015 over 75 NGO partners will add active TB detection
component into their service package.
6. Trainings for social workers should emphasize on client`s motivation to
detection and adherence to treatment of TB.

8. www.aidsalliance.org.ua
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