A landmark collaborative health research project between Pakistan and the United Kingdom has uncovered an alarmingly high prevalence of depression among tuberculosis (TB) patients in Pakistan, underscoring the urgent need to incorporate mental health services into routine TB care. These findings were presented by psychiatrist and Chief Investigator of the CONTROL Programme, Prof Dr Saeed Farooq of Keele University, United Kingdom, during a briefing held at the Senate Hall of Khyber Medical University (KMU). The event was also attended by Dr Zohaib, Director of the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) at KMU, and Dr Zeeshan, Additional Director of ORIC.
Preliminary Findings of the CONTROL Programme
Presenting the preliminary results of the CONTROL Programme, titled “Cognitive Therapy for Depression in Tuberculosis Treatment to Improve Outcomes for Depression and TB in Pakistan and Afghanistan,” Prof Dr Saeed Farooq stated that depression and anxiety are among the leading contributors to poor health outcomes worldwide. He highlighted that a single TB patient can potentially transmit the disease to 10–15 individuals, while nearly 40 percent of TB patients also suffer from anxiety and other mental health challenges.
Key Statistics from the Study
According to the study, out of 1,200 patients registered under the project, 570 were found to have significant mental health problems, with approximately 66 percent experiencing moderate to severe depression. These figures emphasize the critical intersection between TB and mental health.
Joint Initiative and Objectives
The CONTROL Programme is a joint initiative of Keele University, UK, and Khyber Medical University, Pakistan, funded by the United Kingdom’s National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). The project aims to improve treatment outcomes by integrating culturally adapted Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) into routine TB services. Researchers emphasized that TB patients often face depression, anxiety, social stigma, isolation, and financial hardship, all of which can adversely affect treatment adherence and recovery.
Clinical Trial and Community Engagement
The ongoing multi-city clinical trial is evaluating the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of providing psychological support alongside conventional TB treatment. The programme also focuses on community engagement, policy development, and strengthening research capacity. Its findings are expected to support the integration of mental health services into national and provincial TB control programs, ultimately improving the quality of life and treatment outcomes for TB patients across Pakistan.
