Experts advocate for targeted tuberculosis screening over mandatory checks, focusing on high-risk groups like smokers and diabetics for better resource use and outcomes.

SHAH ALAM: A targeted and systematic approach to tuberculosis screening is more effective than comprehensive mandatory screening to address rising cases.

Professor Dr Mohd Arshil Moideen, head of the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine at Monash University Malaysia, said this approach uses medical resources precisely on the highest-risk groups.

He stated that the Public Health Consensus 2026 does not support mandatory screening for all citizens.

“Groups such as smokers and diabetics have a three-fold higher risk of developing active TB due to a weakened immune system,” he explained.

The World Health Organisation recommends screening in populations with a disease prevalence rate of more than 0.5%.

Mohd Arshil added that mandatory screening is only effective with guarantees of treatment and job security.

This prevents hidden transmission due to patients’ fear of coming forward.

Meanwhile, Selangor state executive councillor Jamaliah Jamaluddin said the state is committed to strengthening TB programmes.

She said measures include active case detection in affected localities and isolation of patients at health facilities.

Treatment compliance is also monitored to ensure the infection chain is broken.

“The cooperation of all parties including employers and the community is very important,” she emphasised.

This ensures the targeted screening approach can curb the spread effectively.

Previously, Selangor health director Dr Ummi Kalthom Shamsudin highlighted the need for awareness among high-risk groups.

This followed 503 new TB cases recorded nationally during the fifth Epidemiology Week.

 The Sun Malaysia