How early screening is revolutionising Sierra Leone’s fight against TB

One of the highest TB-burden countries, approximately 24,000 people have developed TB in Sierra Leone. Not only are 2600 among those diagnosed children, but an additional 6,449 people with TB are estimated to be missing.

To stay ahead of the curve, Sierra Leone understands that early screening is critical.

Delft Imaging’s work in Sierra Leone has been an intensive one. In 2018, IDA Foundation, funded by the Global Fund, installed 12 EasyDR at Connaught and 10 district hospitals. Delivered by us, these multi-functional digital X-ray systems were fully solar-powered and included charging batteries that allowed 4-6 hours of operation in case of grid failure.

Additionally, we have supplied two portable X-ray systems for active TB case finding. These are powered by CAD4TB. Subsequently, these images can be moved to a central archive using teleradiology, bringing remote expertise to local doctors.

The Government of Sierra Leone has a 5-year maintenance contract for all systems with us and our in-country local partner.

Making a difference

In 2018 and 2019, August and February respectively, Delft organised two-day IT training sessions. They were arranged for the IT officers of Sierra Leone’s X-ray Project, wherein participating hospitals received EasyDRs equipped with CAD4TB and PACS software. We also provided a Chest X-ray Reading Course for doctors and physician assistants at Freetown’s main hospital in 2021.