New initiative by Survivors Against TB addresses challenges faced by Women in TB care

Survivors Against TB (SATB), a collective of tuberculosis survivors, advocates, and experts, has launched an initiative focusing on the specific challenges women face in the fight against TB. This programme aims to create a tailored policy and programmatic response to address the unique barriers impacting women in India and globally.

Women are among the most vulnerable populations affected by TB, facing biological, social, structural, and economic barriers. These challenges often result in delayed diagnosis, inconsistent treatment, and inadequate support. The stigma associated with TB can be severe for women, leading to abuse, abandonment, and a silencing of their struggles, which often remain unnoticed.

“This initiative is about ensuring that our voices and experiences are heard, understood, represented, and inform policy and programmes. We need better gender-responsive care for women impacted by TB in India and globally,” said Akshata Acharya, co-lead of the initiative. “As a TB survivor, I know firsthand how critical it is to address the unique barriers women face. We must create a world where women feel supported, heard, and empowered to seek TB care without fear or stigma.”

The Women’s TB Initiative by SATB will focus on raising awareness about the intersection of gender and TB. It will advocate for gender-responsive healthcare policies and encourage women affected by TB to take leadership roles in addressing the disease. The initiative seeks to create safe spaces for women to share their stories and participate in decision-making processes, ensuring their concerns are prioritised and addressed effectively.

Deepti Chavan, a survivor of multidrug-resistant TB and co-lead of the initiative, highlighted the systemic nature of the issue. “Women often bear the brunt of TB silently due to societal pressures and limited access to resources. This initiative is not just about awareness or ending stigma; it’s about systemic change. We need policies and healthcare systems that are inclusive and recognise the specific challenges women encounter in TB care. Together, we can bring about that change.”