A pioneering initiative, BEAT-Tuberculosis, has emerged as the first global program targeting drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) across all demographics, significantly impacting the World Health Organization’s international treatment policies.
Dr. Francesca Conradie, who spearheaded the study, highlighted that the research successfully demonstrated the safety and efficacy of a new, shorter oral regimen for key populations, marking a major step toward more equitable TB healthcare.
Conradie remarked, “The BEAT-Tuberculosis study introduces a groundbreaking approach by including pregnant women and children in clinical trials, broadening our understanding of TB treatment across various demographics.”
The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a novel six-month treatment regimen, involving four to five drugs including new agents like bedaquiline and delamanid, against the traditional nine-month regimen with seven drugs.
This research, conducted over the past six years at the Clinical HIV Research Unit’s Isango Lethemba TB Research Unit in Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, represents a significant advancement in TB treatment strategies.
A significant study launched in 2019 has achieved a major milestone by enrolling over 400 participants across both provinces, despite the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The research aimed not only to assess new treatment methods for drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) but also to build research capacity in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. This involved community outreach and training for local healthcare workers in clinical research techniques.
Dr. Francesca Conradie emphasized that “the crucial support from the National and Provincial Departments of Health, including the provision of necessary medications and laboratory infrastructure, was instrumental in evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the new treatment.”
The study, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and managed by the University of the Witwatersrand, has led to changes in the World Health Organization’s TB treatment guidelines and highlighted the role of the Global South in advancing treatment.
Professor Norbert Ndjeka, Chief Director of TB Control and Management, reported that South Africa saw approximately 280,000 new TB cases and 54,000 deaths in 2022. TB continues to be a significant public health challenge and the second leading cause of death in the country.
“This project marks a crucial development in TB treatment and research, promising to drive significant improvements in managing drug-resistant TB globally. While initially focused on local treatment guidelines, its impact will now benefit patients worldwide,” Ndjeka stated.
Leslie Marbury of USAID Southern Africa commended the collaborative effort, recognizing the contributions of the 400 participants and all involved stakeholders. The project’s success brings hope for enhanced TB care and treatment.
For those experiencing TB symptoms—such as a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, weight loss, night sweats, and fever—local clinics are available for testing and treatment.