Miners urged to seek modern treatment for TB, silicosis
KILIMANJARO: PEOPLE working in mining areas have been urged to prioritise modern, evidencebased medical treatment and regularly assess their health conditions instead of relying solely on traditional healers when facing health challenges.
The call was made by the Coordinator of the Northern Zone NGO dealing with Tuberculosis (TB) and AIDS control (MKUTA), Mr Thobias Chacha, during a meeting with miners at the Tanzanite mines in Mererani, Simanjiro District, Manyara Region.
The meeting was organised by Kibong’oto Infectious Diseases Hospital (KIDH) based in Siha District, Kilimanjaro Region. Mr Chacha said reports indicate that many TB patients, including miners, initially seek treatment through traditional means, leading to delays and increased health risks.
“Many patients associate their illness with superstitious beliefs and begin treatment with traditional healers, which often results in treatment failure and serious health complications,” he said.
He added that relying on traditional remedies before seeking modern medical care contributes to delays in diagnosis and treatment, particularly for TB and silicosis patients.
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“Many people, especially the youth, opt for unconventional treatments at the early stages. This denies them timely diagnosis and proper care that could be obtained at health facilities,” he noted.
Mr Chacha urged miners and surrounding communities to develop a habit of regular health check-ups and avoid unverified treatments, warning that such practices could worsen conditions and lead to drug-resistant diseases.
Speaking on behalf of fellow miners, Mr Jonas Makota thanked KIDH for organising the awareness session, saying it had equipped them with vital knowledge on handling health challenges.
“Many of us, especially the youth, do not prioritise health check-ups and often delay seeking professional care. This education will help change our mindset and encourage timely medical attention,” he said.
