asked the Minister for Health the number of people who received treatment for TB in 1981 and 1982 in each health board area; whether he is satisfied with the effectiveness and appropriateness of the present methods of treating TB; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers . - Treatment for TB .
218.
: The statistical information requested by the Deputy is set out in a tabular statement, which I propose, to circulate with the Official Report.
I am satisfied with both the effectiveness and appropriateness of the present methods of treatment available. Tuberculosis reponds to antibiotics readily available in this country. The effect of the antibiotics is to render the patient non-infective within a period of 48 hours. Most patients are themselves cured of tuberculosis by appropriate antibiotic therapy in two to three months. A small number of cases are found to be resistent to antibiotics and require special treatment. This treatment is available through the community and hospital services.
During the period 1971-1980 there was a downward trend in the number of persons being treated for tuberculosis. The figures in recent years however show that the number of persons being treated has levelled off. The total number of new cases being reported annually also shows a similar pattern during the period 1971-1980. Under existing tuberculosis programmes, therefore, there may be little scope for reducing the incidence of the disease further and a review of current policy is necessary. Such a review has been commenced by my Department.
Following is the statement:
Number of persons receiving treatment for Tuberculosis in 1981 and 1982 in each Health Board area.
|
Health Board Area |
1981 |
1982 |
|
Eastern |
1,629 |
654 |
|
North-Eastern |
405 |
427 |
|
South-Eastern |
388 |
397 |
|
Western |
379 |
399 |
|
North-Western |
365 |
* |
|
Mid-Western |
418 |
452 |
|
Southern |
485 |
324 |
|
Midland |
156 |
137 |
* Not yet available.