India must enhance pulmonary rehabilitation in healthcare centers

Experts say India must improve pulmonary rehabilitation services in primary healthcare centers to help those who suffer from long-term lung damage after tuberculosis (TB). Early and effective follow-up care, including rehabilitation and palliative care, is crucial for these survivors. Tuberculosis is still a major health issue worldwide, causing 1.25 million deaths in 2023. India has a large burden, accounting for 26% of global TB cases and deaths. Many survivors continue to experience serious lung issues even after treatment, which can lead to reduced quality of life and financial difficulties due to ongoing health needs. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is recognized as an effective way to help manage these complications. It includes physical exercise, breathing exercises, medication support, and nutritional guidance. However, many Indian patients lack access to PR services. Some institutions, like the Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, offer limited programs, but more facilities are needed. Experts stress early detection of lung damage through regular X-ray and lung function tests. Although the Indian government recommends follow-ups for TB survivors, implementation varies widely among healthcare centers. Enhancing detection and rehabilitation could significantly improve outcomes for patients. Additionally, TB survivor Ganesh Acharya highlights the struggles individuals face in obtaining specialized care. He believes structured recovery initiatives should be as strong as active TB treatment since many patients remain vulnerable to complications. The decentralized nature of TB care in India hinders access to rehabilitation, particularly in rural areas. To improve services, experts recommend expanding PR at primary healthcare centers, using successful models like Kerala’s SWAAS program, which integrates COPD and TB care at the grassroots level. By adopting these measures, India could improve post-TB care and enhance the well-being of survivors while reducing mortality rates.