​By far, tuberculosis (TB) has been listed as one of the deadliest chronic diseases in the world. Fortunately, just like any other chronic illnesses such as HIV, TB can be treated – and even better; it can be healed completely when the patient takes treatment accordingly.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but they can also damage other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when a person with TB of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes or talks. At the University of Johannesburg (UJ), both staff and students get screened for TB for free and, if found to be infected, patients are placed in treatment programmes via the local public clinic and monitored internally until cured.

Internationally, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the 24th of March as a commemorative day to raise awareness on programmes to curb the spread of TB, and also remember those that died due to the illness. UJ’s Primary Healthcare Service, IOHA and the Gymnasium commemorate World TB Day, in partnership with the Right To Care/Themba Lethu Clinic in Helen Joseph Hospital, City of Joburg TB unit and the Clinical HIV Research unit, by bringing wellness services to staff and students.

UJ will observe the World TB Day on 17 March 2017 by offering; TB screening and testing, blood pressure monitoring, glucose testing, HIV Testing, Body Mass Index and body fat % measurement, TB/HIV research information, and cervical cancer screening.

“Following the success of the last year, we wish to continue and expand the service offered to both staff and students for HIV, TB, prostate cancer and more,” says Ms Miemie Geya, Head: Primary Healthcare Service at UJ.

The testing will take place at the Auckland Park Kingsway Campus, Student Centre lawn, from 10am until 2pm.