Resource type:
Blogs/news/opinion
Link:
This study examines the role of food assistance programs in improving tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes in Afghanistan. The World Food Programme (WFP) implemented a food support initiative for TB patients, providing monthly food parcels to improve adherence to Directly Observed Treatment (DOT).
Findings show that food insecurity significantly affects TB treatment success rates, with malnourished patients experiencing higher mortality and treatment default rates. Patients and their families viewed food support as a crucial incentive to complete treatment. The study recommends integrating food assistance into national TB control programs to enhance treatment adherence and overall health outcomes.
Photo Credit: Canva