
Photo: Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme (m), Director, Public Health Dept., Dr. Christian Tetsola (l) and State Tuberculosis ProgrammeManager, Dr. Francis Bakpa (r) during the presentation of the first batch of three mobile digital AI assisted x-ray machines meant for the detection of Tuberculosis in Asaba.
As part of efforts to combat the spread and early detection of Tuberculosis, the Delta State government has received its first batch of mobile digital AI assisted x-ray machines meant for the detection of Tuberculosis.
The Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme who received the equipment in Asaba on behalf of the State Government, commended KNCV Foundation and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP) for their efforts and assistance.
“This partnership aims to intensify efforts toward eradicating Tuberculosis by improving diagnostic capabilities, particularly in the underserved and high-burden areas of the State,” the Commissioner disclosed.
“By improving our diagnostic network, we are better equipped to identify and treat Tuberculosis cases, reducing transmission and ultimately saving lives,hence we are deploying these first batch of equipment to serve Ughelli North, Ika South and Ethiope West Council Areas which have the highest burden in our State.
The State Tuberculosis Programme Manager, Dr. Francis Bakpa explained that the equipment were not just x-ray machines but they are AI assisted machines that make diagnosis easier and also are not used in the hospital but in the field.
He revealed that over 300 of these machines are being deployed across the country by KNCV in conjunction with the National TB Programme, the body responsible for controlling tuberculosis and leprosy in Nigeria and working towards the elimination of the disease in the country.