The Ministry of Health of Peru announced on Apr. 20 that it has processed more than 100,000 rapid molecular diagnostic tests for tuberculosis so far this year.
This development is significant as it expands access to advanced technology for early detection of tuberculosis, aiming to improve public health outcomes and control the spread of the disease.
According to the ministry, these efforts are led by the Directorate for Prevention and Control of Tuberculosis. The program uses state-of-the-art equipment such as GeneXpert machines installed in national reference laboratories, hospitals, and specialized institutes. Additionally, Truenat devices have been implemented at primary healthcare centers. Both technologies enable quick identification of the tuberculosis bacillus and can detect drug resistance, which helps start timely and appropriate treatments.
All test results are recorded in the NetLab 2 information system to ensure traceability and strengthen epidemiological surveillance across Peru. The ministry said this progress is possible due to coordinated work by specialized laboratory staff nationwide who play a key role in processing samples efficiently and reliably.
The health authority also highlighted the importance of strengthening sample transportation services from healthcare facilities and intervention zones where suspected cases are identified to laboratories equipped with these diagnostic tools. This approach allows expanded diagnostic coverage and ensures timely access to testing in more communities.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment “to continue promoting innovative strategies that allow early detection of tuberculosis, break chains of transmission, and guarantee comprehensive care for affected individuals.”
