Patient profile and treatment outcome in a tuberculosis unit in Kolkata, West Bengal

Background: Tuberculosis is caused by bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that most often affect the lungs. Tuberculosis is curable and preventable. It is estimated that 1/3rd of current global population is infected asymptomatically with tuberculosis, of which 5-10% will develop clinical disease during life time.Methods: This descriptive observational study was conducted in Tuberculosis Unit, Bagbazar, Kolkata. Initially demographic data and initial clinical data were collected. Then follow up data were collected until the end of treatment. Data were compiled and analysed. Frequency and percentages were calculated.Results: Male patients were more (69.12%). Majority (61.76%) of the patients were in the age group of 19-50 years of age, followed by 50-60 years (17.64%). Common presenting complaints were cough (61.76%), fever (63.24%), loss of appetite (54.41%), respiratory distress (11.76%), haemoptysis (10.29%), loss of weight (10.29%), swelling of gland (5.88%). Success rate (treatment completed and cured) was about 90%.Conclusions: Tuberculosis was found more in male and in active age group. Treatment of tuberculosis had a very high success rate.

Monitoring of mass measles campaign in AILA-affected areas of West Bengal.

A mass measles campaign was organized in AILA-affected areas of West Bengal in July-August 2009. The present cross-sectional study was conducted with the objectives to monitor and assess the cold chain maintenance, safe injection practices, IEC methods adopted, and to observe the conduction of the sessions in the campaign. All the cold chain points at the block level had adequate vaccines and equipments, twice monitoring of temperature which was in optimal range. 82% sessions had team according to microplan, AWW was present and team members were actively mobilizing the children in 83% sessions, puncture proof container was used and vaccines were given in correct sites in more than 95% sessions. The study observed satisfactory conduction of the whole campaign, still the injection safety procedures should be strengthened considering the potential harm to the health care providers.