The council is actively raising awareness of the disease and providing guidance on how residents can stay healthy
Despite common misconceptions, tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health issue, particularly in areas of high social need. This was highlighted by Councillor Polly Knewstub, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for healthy equal lives, in response to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency.
The council is actively raising awareness of the disease and providing guidance on how residents can stay healthy. TB is a bacterial infection spread through inhaling tiny droplets from the sneezes of an infected person. While it is a serious condition, it can be cured with proper treatment, including a course of antibiotics. The disease primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body, including the bones and nervous system. Symptoms can include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks. For a comprehensive list of symptoms, residents are advised to visit the NHS website.
TB continues to be a major public health concern, particularly in London, where high rates of migration from countries with high TB prevalence have contributed to the spread of the disease. According to the latest local data, 117 new cases of TB were reported in the borough between 2020 and 2023. Councillor Knewstub urged residents to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical help if they are at risk, emphasising that early diagnosis is crucial to stopping the spread.
Abdi Ali, a TB advisor for Ealing Community Partners (ECP), led by West London NHS Trust, works across the borough to raise awareness and manage outbreaks, particularly in areas most affected. He explained that Ealing’s higher TB prevalence is due to a combination of social deprivation, high population density, and migration from countries with higher rates of TB. This makes the borough more vulnerable to outbreaks, and increasing awareness and early diagnosis is essential to control the spread.
However, the stigma surrounding TB remains a significant barrier to treatment. Many people are hesitant to seek help due to fear of social stigma or a lack of knowledge about the disease. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, allowing the disease to spread further. To combat this, ECP, in collaboration with the council, is implementing outreach programmes, mobile clinics, and working closely with local schools, community organisations, and faith leaders.
Abdi Ali stressed that education and community support are key to overcoming the stigma associated with TB. Health professionals remain optimistic that increased public awareness, better access to healthcare, and ongoing community engagement will help control and ultimately reduce the spread of the disease.
The fight against TB in Ealing is not just a medical challenge but also a social one. The stigma associated with the disease often deters individuals from seeking timely medical attention, exacerbating the problem. To address this, ECP has launched a series of educational campaigns aimed at dispelling myths and providing accurate information about TB. These campaigns include community workshops, informational leaflets, and social media initiatives designed to reach a broader audience.
One of the key strategies employed by ECP is the use of mobile clinics. These clinics travel to areas with high TB prevalence, providing free testing and consultations. The mobile clinics are staffed by healthcare professionals who are trained to detect early signs of TB and provide immediate advice and treatment options. This approach has been particularly effective in reaching vulnerable populations who may not have easy access to traditional healthcare facilities.
In addition to mobile clinics, ECP has partnered with local schools to incorporate TB education into the curriculum. By teaching children about the disease, its symptoms, and the importance of seeking medical help, the hope is to create a generation that is more aware and less stigmatised by TB. Community organisations and faith leaders have also played a crucial role in this effort, using their platforms to spread awareness and encourage open discussions about the disease.
Another innovative approach taken by ECP is the use of peer support groups. These groups consist of individuals who have previously been affected by TB and have successfully completed their treatment. They share their experiences and provide emotional support to those currently battling the disease. This peer-to-peer support system has proven to be highly effective in reducing stigma and encouraging timely medical intervention.
Despite the challenges, there are signs of progress. The number of new TB cases reported in Ealing has shown a slight decline in recent years, indicating that the combined efforts of ECP, the council, and the community are making a difference. However, the fight is far from over. Continued vigilance, increased public awareness, and sustained community engagement are essential to ensure that TB is eventually eradicated from the borough.
