Call for Urgent Adoption of PPD Testing for Tuberculosis Screening in Northern Cyprus
The Cyprus Turkish Medical Association emphasized the increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases in the country recently and stressed the need to switch to the scientifically sound PPD in screening tests.
Highlighting that the cases were not among Turkish Cypriots, the association stated that in 2021 there were 29, in 2022 there were 33, in 2023 there were 61, and in 2024 there were 12 diagnosed cases.
The statement pointed out that the fact that the cases were not among Turkish Cypriots was remarkable, and it argued that there was no "realistic" significant decrease in the number of cases after switching to CRP instead of PPD for work, residence, and student permits in the second half of 2023.
The statement emphasized that all guidelines of developed countries recommend PPD for TB screening, stating that using CRP for screening purposes is risking public health.
In the method where CRP is used for screening, it was stated that there are serious drawbacks, such as delays of 2-3 months in taking chest X-rays, which puts public health at risk.
The association stressed that the PPD test is essential for TB screening, and ensuring the applicability of the PPD test is possible with the efforts of the authorities.
Switching to PPD for TB in student and work permits is urgently needed to address a public health issue before it escalates, the statement concluded.
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