By Phyllia Pisep, EMTV Cadet Journalist – Lae
With the growing rate of market tuberculosis (TB) in Papua New Guinea today, the Lahi Anti-Tuberculosis Association aims to help reduce market TB cases in clinics in Lae by conducting awareness. This Association has been operating for over ten years without proper funding. Lahi Anti-TB Association is made up of more than 60 volunteers from Lae urban clinics.
Sister Siling Awasa, Lahi Anti-TB Association’s advisor commented that: “the group will be a powerhouse behind the nursing officers in achieving our health indicators.”
The association was formed by health workers back in 1999 as the Morobe Anti-TB Association, but it later ceased and was reestablished as the Lahi Anti-TB Association in 2004. Lahi Anti-TB association has been achieving its targets with hard-working volunteers.
“The World Vision used Lae Districts’ volunteers to achieve the cure rate of more than 85%,” Sister Awasa said.
Since the establishment of the association, they have not received any funding or support; instead, they host fundraisings to fund awareness’ and are supported by communities from time to time. These volunteers also carry out awareness on polio and HIV.
“It is a volunteer work with good hearts to help those (who) have tuberculosis, and our main focus is to decrease the rate of market TB,” stated Miti Peter, a volunteer with the Lahi Anti-TB Association from Butibam Health Centre.
Today, the Lahi Anti- TB association received funds from the Lae District office and launched a new logo. Sister Awasa said with the launching of the new logo and banner, they can be recognised in Lae.
