(a) the estimated number of tuberculosis patients in the country and the number of deaths due to this disease every year;
(b) whether vital drugs for its cure are provided free to poor patients; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
(a) the estimated number of tuberculosis patients in the country and the number of deaths due to this disease every year;
(b) whether vital drugs for its cure are provided free to poor patients; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI A. RAJA)
(a) The estimated number of TB patients in the country is about 14 million. Deaths are not reported under the National TB Control Programme. However, it is estimated that 5 lakhs people die of TB every year in the country.
(b) Yes Sir. Under the National TB Control Programme, anti-TB drugs are provided free of cost to all TB patients, irrespective of their status, through the Primary Health Care System.
(c) Does not arise.