The Truenat platform, developed by Molbio in Goa, India, has garnered significant attention and praise for its pivotal role in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) worldwide. Launched in 2017, Truenat represents a breakthrough in molecular diagnostics, offering rapid and accurate testing for pulmonary, extrapulmonary, and rifampicin-resistant TB.
Operating on real-time quantitative micro-PCR technology, Truenat is a portable, battery-operated device that can be deployed in various settings, including laboratories, health centers, and field operations. Its efficiency is underscored by its ability to deliver test results within an hour, enabling prompt diagnosis and treatment initiation. Notably, Truenat's versatility extends beyond TB, with the capacity to test for over 40 different diseases.
During the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva, the Global Fund, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), commended India's efforts in TB eradication, particularly highlighting innovative initiatives such as the widespread adoption of Truenat machines and handheld X-ray devices. These technologies, designed for challenging environments, have demonstrated their effectiveness in enhancing case detection and improving healthcare delivery.
Sriram Natarajan, CEO of Molbio, expressed gratitude for the recognition received at the global level, citing Truenat's growing presence with approximately 10,000 installations worldwide. In India, Truenat has been integrated into the National TB Elimination Programme, with over 7,000 primary health centers and community health centers utilizing the platform, alongside approximately 1,500 private laboratories.
At the Assembly, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra emphasized the importance of continued support from organizations like The Global Fund to strengthen public health systems and bolster TB control efforts. Given the staggering toll of TB, which claims the lives of an estimated 480,000 Indians annually, early diagnosis and treatment remain paramount. With over 10 million new cases reported globally each year, India bears a significant burden, accounting for 27% of total cases.