Incorporating the Next Generation in the Fight to End TB: A Case Study of TB Service Provision by Peer Support Groups among Secondary School Students in Badagry LGA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47363/JPRR/2024(6)162Keywords:
Tuberculosis, World Health OrganizationAbstract
Background: Children can play a crucial role in ending tuberculosis (TB) by raising awareness about the disease and promoting healthy behaviors among their peers. Engaging children in ending TB requires a child-friendly approach and platforms such as schools that recognize their unique needs and perspectives. This study aims to determine the impact of peer education on the uptake of TB screening and TB case findings among secondary school children in the Badagry LGA area of Lagos State.
Method: Between October 2021 and March 2022, 50 senior students were selected from 7 secondary schools and trained as TB peer educators. These students were tasked with the responsibility of increasing awareness of tuberculosis among students and to also facilitate their access to TB testing services.
Results: The results showed a statistically significant association between Peer TB screening and TB diagnosis. There was a 1000 % increase in the number of students screened for TB (from 4699 to 49198 clients) and a 400% increase in TB case finding (from 23 to 93 cases) among secondary school students.
Conclusion: Involving children in TB activities is crucial to the success of ending the tuberculosis epidemic and achieving the END TB goal.
