“Addressing Latent Tuberculosis Infection and Tuberculosis in Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Communities: The Role of Health Centers for Testing and Treatment” – Webinar (August 2021)

In this webinar, Tenzin Kunor from We Are TB and Dr. Sheldon Riklon from UAMS Health Family Medical Center in Fayetteville, AR and Community Clinic in Northwest Arkansas spoke about a TB survivor’s experience, and the role of community health centers around latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and tuberculosis (TB) disease testing and treatment.

In 2019, a total of 8,916 TB disease cases were reported in the United States and its Territories. Out of those cases, TB disease was reported in 3,150 Asians. Asians, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders are disproportionately impacted by TB at a greater rate compared to other racial and ethnic groups. For example, the rate of TB disease is 32 times higher for Asians than whites. Considering the complex health and social needs of the Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, health centers play a critical role as a safety net provider and community partner to address special and vulnerable populations with increased risk of TB.

This webinar shared a patient survivor experience with TB; discuss successful strategies for chronic disease management and LTBI/TB screening, testing, and treatment in high need populations in community health care settings; and share information about the TB Elimination Alliance initiative.