Irkutsk region remains one of Russias worst regions for tuberculosis prevalence and mortality. In recent years incidence has risen by 13.8 percent. An audit found the tuberculosis program failed to meet its goals, with declines in incidence, disability, and screenings far below plan. The main reason was insufficient funding, and this years new program will focus on training medical staff and organizational measures.
One of the highest rates in the Siberian Federal District and the Russian Federation is found in the Irkutsk Region in terms of the prevalence of tuberculosis and the population’s mortality from it. According to the audit, the incidence of tuberculosis increased by 13.8% compared with 2004.The targeted program being implemented in the region, “Urgent Measures to Combat Tuberculosis in the Irkutsk Region for 2004 - 2008,” did not achieve the goals set for it. Thus, it was planned that the prevalence of tuberculosis in the Irkutsk Region would decrease by 30% (during the program period it decreased by 7.6%), primary disability incidence by 20% (decreased by 6%), and the share of the population covered by preventive examinations would reach 70% (the actual figure was 59.9%).
Auditor Olga Rizman believes the main reason for the program’s failure was insufficient funding.
This year, 4.5 million rubles are planned to be allocated for the implementation of the departmental program “Tuberculosis.” Unlike the regional targeted program that was in effect in 2004 - 2008, it is aimed not at purchasing anti-tuberculosis drugs and equipment, but at training medical workers and carrying out organizational and methodological measures.