Topic: 2024-Tuberculosis
Country: Poland
Delegate Name: Simon Rothstein
The Republic of Poland is deeply committed to finding comprehensive solutions to reduce the global disease burden of tuberculosis (TB) and to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of ending the TB epidemic by 2030. To address this pressing issue, Poland acknowledges the urgency of the situation and stands ready to collaborate to develop effective strategies.
From 2021 to 2022, the increase in tuberculosis cases has raised concerns regarding the factors contributing to this TB and how it can be addressed. Poland recognizes that several factors may have contributed to this increase, including limited access to healthcare services, gaps in TB detection and diagnosis, inadequate treatments, socioeconomic determinants of health, and conflicts with the COVID-19 pandemic. To address this, Poland advocates for strengthening health systems, expanding access to affordable diagnostics and treatment, diminishing gaps in healthcare coverage, and addressing social determinants of health such as poverty and inequity.
The financial burden of tuberculosis treatment poses a significant challenge for many patients and their households. Poland acknowledges that half of all tuberculosis patients face catastrophic costs due to medical expenses and lost income. To alleviate this burden, Poland supports initiatives to reduce the cost of TB treatment through subsidization, insurance schemes, and social protection programs. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of addressing the underlying socioeconomic factors that contribute to financial hardship, such as unemployment and lack of social support.
The increase in drug-resistant tuberculosis cases in the regions of the Americas and Southeast Asia is a concerning development that requires immediate attention. Poland recognizes that factors contributing to this increase may include inadequate treatment regimens and limited access to quality healthcare services. To address this, Poland advocates for strengthening TB treatment programs, improving diagnostic capacity for drug-resistant TB, and implementing infection control measures to prevent transmission. Furthermore, Poland supports efforts to promote research and innovation in the development of new drugs and treatment modalities for drug-resistant TB.
In conclusion, the Republic of Poland reaffirms its commitment to working collaboratively with the international community to reduce the global disease burden of tuberculosis. By addressing the underlying determinants of TB transmission and ensuring access to quality diagnostics and treatment, we can move closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of ending the TB epidemic by 2030.
