The research study, which examined how private healthcare providers in Mumbai and Patna managed patients, has indicated that vast proportions of patients with microbiologically confirmed TB or suspected drugresistant TB are receiving inappropriate diagnosis, prescriptions and treatment. The study suggests that only 26 per cent of TB patients and 10 per cent of suspected drug-resistant TB patients who turn to private healthcare providers receive correct management in Mumbai. In Patna, 19 per cent of TB patients and 16 per cent of suspected drug-resistant TB patients would receive correct management. The inappropriate management rose to above 70 per cent in the cases of confirmed TB or suspected drug-resistant TB. Doctors point out that steroids, which can dampen symptoms and make patients feel better temporarily and delay diagnosis and treatment, have no role in the treatment of patients with pulmonary TB or drug-resistant TB.

Source: The Telegraph September 26, 2018 01:18 UTC