LEH: Three hundred and forty-seven people underwent Chest X-ray screening and 37 were tested through CBNAAT during a three-day tuberculosis (TB) screening campaign held at Leh Main Market as part of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan during Ladakh Festival 2026.
The outreach campaign used AI-based Chest X-ray technology for rapid screening and identification of individuals showing symptoms or radiological findings suggestive of TB, bringing screening and diagnostic services closer to residents and visitors attending the festival.
The initiative focused on early detection, timely diagnosis and prompt linkage to treatment, in line with the objectives of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and ongoing national efforts towards TB elimination.
The AI-based screening was used to facilitate the identification of individuals who may require further diagnostic assessment. Those identified for additional evaluation were subjected to the diagnostic process, including CBNAAT testing.
The three-day campaign also sought to encourage greater public participation in active TB screening and increase awareness about the importance of seeking timely medical attention.
The screening services were provided at the Main Market to take TB detection beyond conventional healthcare facilities and make it accessible to people at a public gathering.
Alongside TB screening, the medical stall provided 156 Sowa-Rigpa OPD consultations, while 230 people availed themselves of NCD screening and OPD services.
The combination of TB screening with preventive and primary healthcare services enabled festival visitors and members of the public to access multiple health services at a single public location.
The campaign highlighted the role of community-based screening in detecting TB at an early stage and facilitating timely access to diagnosis and treatment.
The outreach initiative was conducted with the broader objective of strengthening community participation in the TB elimination programme and ensuring that screening services reach people beyond healthcare institutions.
