On 25 September, 2008 Rinat Akhmetov’s Foundation for Development of Ukraine presented the results of an in-depth research on TB in Donetsk oblast. The poll was held by Kyiv International Institute for Social Studies (KMIS) under the program Fighting TB Epidemic in Donetsk Region in 2007-2011 and was supported by the Foundation.

The poll showed that TB is a pressing problem for the population of Donetsk region. Furthermore, TB which, in fact, can be cured is nonetheless regarded as a death sentence because residents of Donetsk oblast have wrong perception of the disease. Thus, 34.4% respondents believe that TB cannot be cured; 42.2% think that TB can be healed into a latent form rather than cured. Being the key TB symptom, cough is an alarming signal only for one third of the population. Lack of awareness of TB contraction ways and the risk rate makes people stay away from TB infected: 65% respondents believe that TB infected should be avoided, while another 48% believe that they should be isolated.

The results will be applied in the informational campaign to be realized by the Foundation for Development of Ukraine to enhance TB awareness of people.

INVESTIGATION REPORT

About the Foundation:

Foundation for Development of Ukraine is a non-profit organization, established on 15 July 2005.

Mission - The Foundation for Development of Ukraine lays the basis for the successful and sustainable development of Ukrainian society by investing in the education of future generations, improving the nation’s health, as well as preservation and development of Ukrainian culture.

Areas of activity: contemporary education, health of the nation, cultural heritage, targeted assistance.

President of the Foundation for Development of Ukraine is Rinat Akhmetov.