James Chance

Projects: A Duel Threat

There is a new threat. Doctors are testing 44-year-old Sok Phalla, who has HIV, for multi drug resistant TB. According to the Cambodian Health Committee, there are an estimated 100 patients in Cambodia with suspected MDR TB. There are likely many more who have not been located and diagnosed as many patients avoid seeking formal treatment for suspected illness, and transportation to formal facilities from rural areas is difficult. In this environment, the potential exists for an exponential increase in those suffering from MDR TB given the high rate of HIV infection and malnutrition that exist here. In short, MDR TB makes the threat of TB and HIV in Cambodia that much more urgent.
There is a new threat. Doctors are testing 44-year-old Sok Phalla, who has HIV, for multi drug resistant TB. According to the Cambodian Health Committee, there are an estimated 100 patients in Cambodia with suspected MDR TB. There are likely many more who have not been located and diagnosed as many patients avoid seeking formal treatment for suspected illness, and transportation to formal facilities from rural areas is difficult. In this environment, the potential exists for an exponential increase in those suffering from MDR TB given the high rate of HIV infection and malnutrition that exist here. In short, MDR TB makes the threat of TB and HIV in Cambodia that much more urgent.