A New Lease on Life: Christine’s Triumph Over Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis

For nearly a year, Christine Nalukwago, a 24-year-old resident of Nsangi, Wakiso district wrestled with a persistent cough and chest pains, symptoms misdiagnosed and treated as ulcer disease. As her condition deteriorated, economic fears about the costs associated with her worsening health saw her relocated to her mother’s home in Kasawo—a move borne out of desperation and the grim pragmatism of avoiding the higher costs of transporting a deceased from the city.

It was during the National Community Awareness, Screening, and Testing for Tuberculosis (CAST Plus) campaign week that a turning point arrived. A Village Health Team (VHT) member visited Christine’s new residence, discussing symptoms and spreading awareness about tuberculosis. Reflecting on the information provided, Christine’s mother was struck by the similarities to her daughter’s condition and was advised to seek immediate medical testing.

The results from the GeneXpert test at Kasawo Health Centre III confirmed the frightening diagnosis: drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB). However, hope was not lost. With the support of the USAID Local Partner Health Services-TB Activity, Christine was expedited to Mulago National Referral Hospital, marking the beginning of a life-saving journey.

Christine underwent an intensive two-week initiation of an all-oral short regimen for DR-TB. Upon stabilization, her treatment continued under daily observation from a nearby drug shop, allowing her the comfort of proximity to family during her recovery. In July 2024, Christine triumphed over the disease that once threatened her life.

Christine’s journey to recovery, underpinned by the CAST TB+ initiative, vividly illustrates the impactful outcomes of the USAID LPHS TB Activity’s commitment to eradicating tuberculosis in Uganda. The CAST TB+ approach, a Ministry of Health initiative, seamlessly integrates with the activity’s objectives to increase screening and detection rates, improve treatment success, and strengthen health systems. By offering technical support and cultivating partnerships across multiple levels, this initiative not only enhances the capabilities of health systems but also guarantees that communities like Christine’s receive improved access to comprehensive healthcare services.

This strategic alignment has significantly expanded the reach and effectiveness of TB health services throughout Uganda, substantially boosting national treatment coverage and success rates. Reflecting USAID’s dedication to sustainable health initiatives, this integrated strategy is effectively propelling Uganda toward achieving the End TB strategy goals by 2030.