TB Free Chuuk

Abstract

Introduction: Chuuk, the largest state within the Federated States of Micronesia, has one of the highest burdens of tuberculosis in the Pacific. In May 2023, members of the University of Hawaii Department of Family Medicine participated in TB Free Chuuk, which is a multi-organization (CDC, WHO, Chuuk state TB program among others), multidisciplinary public health initiative to decrease the burden of TB and Hansen’s disease in Chuuk by conducting nation-wide TB screening and treatment.

Objectives: To screen 21,000 Chuukese residents and treat all cases of active and latent TB. To conduct screening for Hansen’s disease for all adults and children, and to screen all adults for diabetes. To describe the efforts to decrease the burden of TB and Hansen’s disease in Chuuk.

Methods: Data were collected and organized by team epidemiologists, with analysis in progress.

Results: As of October 5, 2023, teams have completed TB screening for 12,194 people, with 176 people referred for treatment of active TB. 2,170 people (18%) found to have latent TB, and 2,053 of these began their TB prevention 3-HP regimen with local community health outreach workers (CHOWs) continuing to administer treatment. 7,969 people have taken medication to prevent leprosy. Over 1000 individuals tested positive for diabetes and 400 were newly diagnosed cases referred for treatment.

Conclusion: To maximize the effectiveness of the mass screening and treatment, collaboration with the Public Health teams in Chuuk is vital in order to include the entire community. Continued planning and screening are necessary to provide screening to the Mortlock and NorthWest islands in Chuuk.

Desired Impact: The mass screening and treatment in Chuuk works to provide lasting positive health impacts in Chuuk State by decreasing the burden of TB and Hansen’s disease, building healthier communities for the present and future generations in Chuuk.