Early Detection of TB in West Sulawesi is Strengthening: Why is the Increase in Case Numbers Good News?

JAKARTA - In the world of public health, the increase in the number of cases found is often misinterpreted as a decline in the quality of health. However, the West Sulawesi Health, Population Control, and Family Planning Agency (Dinkes P2KB) confirmed the opposite: the spike in the discovery of tuberculosis (TB) cases in early 2026 is proof that the early detection system works more sharply.

The head of the P2KB Health Office of South Sulawesi, dr. Nursyamsi Rahim, explained that the more cases that are identified, the faster the chain of transmission can be broken.

"This shows that screening and tracking cases in the field are running more optimally. With strong early detection and proper treatment, we not only save patients, but also protect the wider community," said dr. Nursyamsi in Mamuju, Wednesday.

Beyond the Target: Mamuju and Majene as Pioneers Data as of February 2026 shows a positive trend with an increase of 8% in findings compared to the same period in 2025. From an estimated 4,357 cases this year, as many as 595 cases (13.7%) have been successfully found.

Some points of success at the district level include:

Majene Regency: Recording the highest spike with an increase in findings reaching 44%.

Mamuju Regency: Successfully exceeded the national target with a 21.4% achievement.

Polewali Mandar: experiencing an increase in findings of 13%.

Challenges in Mountain and Coastal Regions

Although some regions have shown brilliant performance, dr. Nursyamsi gave special attention to Mamasa Regency, Central Mamuju, and Pasangkayu which experienced a decrease in findings compared to last year. This condition is a signal for the government to strengthen the Active Case Finding (ACF) strategy or actively finding cases directly in the community.

Strategy 2026: Rapid Molecular Testing and Massive Screening

To pursue the target of eliminating TB, the Sulbar Health Office has prepared strategic steps in line with the vision of developing superior human resources:

TCM optimization: Maximize the use of Molecular Rapid Tests (TCM) for more accurate and rapid diagnosis results.

Intensive assistance: Provide extra support for districts with low achievements so that the case tracking system can be strengthened.

National Priority: Integrate this program into the Fast Results Program (PHTC).

"Eliminating TB is not only the task of medical personnel, but a joint commitment between the government and public awareness to get tested. West Sulawesi is optimistic that with data transparency and treatment until recovery, future generations will grow healthier and competitive.