MoHAP Unveils Updated Scientific Guidelines For National Tuberculosis Control Programme 2025

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), along with its health sector partners, has introduced updated guidelines for the National Tuberculosis Control Programme 2025. This initiative aims to boost the national health system's preparedness for future challenges by adopting a proactive approach aligned with global best practices in communicable disease prevention.

During a workshop in Dubai, the scientific guide was revealed. Attendees included Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Public Health Sector, and Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of Public Health and Prevention. Representatives from various health authorities and experts from both government and private sectors were also present.

The guidelines are designed to standardise national policies for diagnosing and treating tuberculosis. They aim to enhance follow-up and surveillance mechanisms according to international standards. These efforts will improve healthcare quality, support universal coverage, and reduce incidence rates in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and WHO’s End TB Strategy 2030.

Key recommendations include adopting short-term treatment regimens for drug-resistant TB using effective oral combinations over six months. The guidelines also update follow-up protocols and expand preventive treatment for latent TB. Screening contacts and high-risk groups is emphasised to ensure early detection.

The guidelines stress implementing advanced diagnostic techniques like molecular testing. They also call for developing registration models that meet international standards while enhancing infection control measures and updating isolation protocols. These steps align the National Tuberculosis Programme's objectives with Sustainable Development Goals, promoting equitable access to healthcare services.

Dr. Hussain Al Rand highlighted that launching this updated guide is part of ongoing efforts to eliminate tuberculosis by 2030. He stated that it serves as a unified national reference for diagnosing, treating, and following up on tuberculosis cases, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to evidence-based practices.

Commitment to Evidence-Based Practices

Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi noted that the updated guide signifies a shift in infectious disease prevention efforts in the country, including tuberculosis. It introduces evidence-based medical practices alongside the latest diagnostic and treatment protocols, enhancing healthcare professionals' competence and improving care quality.

The workshop featured scientific presentations on national policies, paediatric tuberculosis, and treatment mechanisms for active and latent cases. Leading public health experts participated in discussions on enhancing surveillance, improving treatment efficiency, and sharing best practices for updated protocols.

These collaborative efforts directly support strengthening tuberculosis control nationwide while improving healthcare service quality. The focus remains on adopting sustainable preventive treatments to anticipate future health challenges while promoting integration among health entities.

With inputs from WAM