UNAIR NEWS – Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that needs careful attention as it can be fatal if left untreated. To address this issue, Ksatria Airlangga Floating Hospital (RSTKA) made an effort to combat tuberculosis. This effort targeted Kangean Island, Sumenep Regency.

The effort was realized through 2024 Bakti RSTKA “TB Free Island” campaign. The opening of the campaign was held in collaboration with the Sumenep District Health Office in Arjasa Subdistrict, Kangean Island, Sumenep Regency on Friday, May 31, 2024.

Dr Arif Bakhtiar, SpP(K) FAPSR, staff of RSUD Dr Soetomo explained about TB and its transmission. Dr. Arif emphasized that one way of the transmissions is through coughing. “The first condition that we should be aware of when TB occurs is coughing. It could be from family members with a prolonged cough,” he explained.

The Director of RSTKA, dr. Agus Harianto SpB, also attended and conveyed that this year RSTKA adopted the theme “White Love”, symbolizing services with love and respect. “In essence, we will provide services to patients with love and respect,” said dr. Agus.

Pentahelix strategy
Furthermore, dr. Agus said that RSTKA does not work alone, but collaborates with various parties using a pentahelix strategy. This strategy involves the government, community leaders, academics, entrepreneurs, and journalists in overcoming TB. “Pentahelix does not rely on just health workers, but a strong rope that involves different parties,” dr. Agus explained.

What can be done through the Pentahelix strategy is to build patient tracking. According to Dr. Agus, treating a patient usually involves many parties. “Assistance is needed to supervise patients who have contracted TB. We also need to disseminate the right lifestyle to prevent TB transmission,” he added.

Self-isolation program
The self-isolation program is the first step in preventing TB transmission. This productive self-isolation program, dr. Agus added, is a program that is being tested. If this program is successful, it will have great results. “If people practice productive self-isolation, they will be able to reduce the risk of TB transmission,” continued the graduate of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR).

He highlighted that self-isolation allows patients, particularly men, to achieve self-actualization, helping them view the disease not as a stigma but as a manageable condition.

dr. Agus also emphasized that all elements can help each other in developing household businesses suitable for TB patients with little physical contact. “We need to collectively find ways to create appropriate business ventures for patients,” he urged.

Author: Ahmad Hanif Musthafa

Editor: Yulia Rohmawati

Source : https://unair.ac.id/en/rstka-committed-to-handle-tb-on-kangean-island/