Singapore’s tuberculosis (TB) cases have decreased slightly to 1,201 in 2023, primarily affecting the elderly and males, including two cases of multi-drug resistant TB. Despite a slight decline, TB remains endemic, with 220 new diagnoses in early 2024.
There is thus a need for more updated guidelines and better ways to control and treat the disease. Hear from Prof Hsu Li Yang, Vice Dean (Global Health), SSHSPH, who was involved in the updated guidelines, as he shares how the revised guidelines aims to be more patient-centric while supporting Singapore’s goal of TB elimination.
The new clinical management guidelines are the result of extensive literature review and stakeholder engagement conducted the by School’s Public Health Translation Office, led by Assoc Prof Jason Yap. Amongst the recommendations include the introduction to video-observed therapy and shorter drug regimens, marking a step forward in more effective control and eradication of TB in Singapore.