Prevent TB In Tangerang After 1,746 Cases Found, Mass Screening Becomes Solution

A resident is conducting a health check to prevent the TB case. (ANTARA/HO-Dinkes Tangerang City)

JAKARTA - The Tangerang City Health Office continues to try to reduce the number of tuberculosis (TBC) cases with various preventive measures and comprehensive treatment.

One of the main strategies implemented is early detection through screening and complete treatment to break the chain of transmission of the disease.

Throughout 2025, the Tangerang City Health Office has recorded 1,746 positive cases of TB which are currently in the process of being handled. The Head of the Health Service, Dini Anggraeni, revealed that the first step in dealing with TB was to find as many cases as possible, ensure that the chain of transmission was cut off, and ensure patients underwent treatment until they fully recovered.

To support early detection, the Health Office has TB South Latitude innovation that allows people to carry out independent screening based on the symptoms experienced. If further indications are found, patients can undergo an examination at the nearest health center.

In addition, the Tangerang City Government is also conducting an active case search through puskesmas facilities equipped with mobile X-rays. This step aims to reach people who find it difficult to access health services directly.

Currently, Tangerang City has 16 molecular rapid test laboratories (TCM) that are used to ensure TB diagnosis. The Health Office also continues to strive to increase the number of laboratories to increase detection capacity.

Throughout 2024, the Health Office has handled 13,382 patients or about 92 percent of the total accumulated cases of 14,687. This effort shows a high commitment in reducing the rate of disease spread.

In order to improve the patient's quality of life, the Health Office is also working with the Housing, Settlement and Land Office to renovate uninhabitable houses. This program aims to improve aspects of sanitation and air ventilation in patients' homes, thereby accelerating their recovery process.

In addition, the presence of Asmara TB cadres is an important part of handling this disease. Cadres are tasked with assisting puskesmas officers in tracing and monitoring patients so that they continue to undergo treatment according to procedures.

With this cadre, patients are expected to complete complete treatment, so as to avoid drug resistance that can worsen their health condition.

The use of technology is also part of the TB response strategy in Tangerang City. Through the TB Information System (SITB) application developed by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, the Health Office can monitor patients in real-time, including a medical history for those who move domicile.

The public is advised not to be afraid to check themselves if they experience TB symptoms. Early detection and proper-time treatment are essential to prevent the spread of disease in the surrounding environment. With a consistent treatment for six months, tuberculosis can be cured. Therefore, maintaining personal health, the environment, and implementing a clean and healthy lifestyle is an important step in preventing tuberculosis in Tangerang City.