A Medical expert has cautioned that Tuberculosis (TB), if left untreated, has the potential to affect the reproductive systems of both males and females, resulting in infertility.
According to Dr. John Ekow Otoo, a Public Health Specialist recently elevated from Deputy Eastern Regional Health Director to Head Savannah Regional Health Directorate, stated that TB can cause genital tuberculosis, which mainly affects the fallopian tubes and the uterus in females.
He said the infection can lead to tubal blockage, adhesions, or scarring, making it difficult for the egg to travel through the fallopian tubes or for the embryo to implant in the uterus, reducing the chances of getting pregnant.
He also explained that,TB could also caused impotency among men although very rare.
“The amount of blood that goes to the testicles is relatively small, so we hardly get orchitis due to tuberculosis, but it is possible”.
Dr. Ekow further cautions that TB infection could have multiple effects on the body.” We can have meningitis caused by Tuberculosis, we can have TB affecting the intestine, we can have TB affecting the Spine, TB affects every part of the body, skin”.
He said this when when addressing the Media at the sidelines of a capacity building workshop held on Monday March 24,2024 marked as World Tuberculosis Day.
Eastern Regional TB Coordinator Angela Quaye said the region recorded 2,319 TB cases in 2024 compared to 2,129 cases reported in 2023.
According to the Regional Health Directorate, the increasing trend is a result of increasing awareness and case search.
TB cases were identified to be contributing to child mortality in the region, hence an accelerated case finding initiative has been rolled out among children which 83 children were diagnosed with TB for early treatment.
The Health Directorate reminded the public that TB treatment remains free.
