Exploring the impact of tuberculosis in South Africa, including the challenges of diagnosis and the development of rapid tests. Discussing the need for faster diagnostics, more effective treatments, and the potential for a replacement vaccine. Highlighting the connection between poverty and TB rates, and the importance of addressing living conditions.
Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death in South Africa, and poverty is closely linked to its incidence.
Researchers at Stellenbosch University are developing a rapid blood test for TB to provide quick and accurate diagnosis, aiming to combat the spread of the disease.
Deep dives
Threat of Tuberculosis in South Africa
Tuberculosis (TB) is a major threat to the South African population, causing more deaths than any other single disease in the country. Poverty is closely linked to the incidence of TB, as it weakens immunity and exacerbates the spread of the disease. TB treatment is challenging due to the slow and evasive nature of the bacterium, as well as the burden it places on patients. Drug resistance is also a significant problem, with a minority of TB patients consuming a large portion of the national TB control budget. Efforts to combat TB include the development of rapid diagnostic tests and research into new vaccines and treatments.
Developing Rapid Diagnostic Tools for TB
Researchers at Stellenbosch University in South Africa are developing a rapid blood test for TB that provides results within minutes, similar to a COVID test. The test detects specific proteins in the blood that indicate the presence of TB and can be administered by nurses in clinics. Faster diagnostics are crucial for early detection and prompt treatment. The research team is also working on determining biomarkers unique to TB, which will enable more accurate and efficient diagnosis. The goal is to develop affordable and accessible tests that can be used widely to combat the spread of TB.
Towards a New TB Vaccine
While treatments and diagnostics are essential, prevention through vaccination is seen as the ultimate solution to tackle TB. The current BCG vaccine, developed a century ago, offers limited protection against disseminated forms of the disease in infants and young children. However, a new vaccine known as M-72 is showing promising results in early trials. The vaccine aims to induce an improved immune response to TB and prevent disease progression in those already infected with the bacteria. Despite funding challenges, researchers are determined to continue their efforts in developing new vaccines that offer better protection and control against TB.
In this episode of Science in Action, we find out that tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of death in South Africa.
After visiting a clinic dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of TB, Roland Pease meets researcher Professor Grant Theron at Stellenbosch University, who explains why the disease is still so prevalent.
Next we hear from Professor Novel Chegou and his student Candice Snyders, also based at Stellenbosch University. They are researching biomarkers to diagnose tuberculosis and have already successfully developed a rapid finger-prick test to identify TB.
Roland then chats to vaccine researcher Professor Thomas Scriba at the University of Cape Town, who reveals more about the current landscape of TB vaccination.
Presenter: Roland Pease
Producer: Ella Hubber
Editor: Martin Smith
Production co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth
(Photo: Frontline healthcare workers wear a protective mask and tb mask to prevent the spread of airborne disease. Credit: stockstudioX/Getty Images)
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