Dhaka, 26 July 2026: In a significant step towards strengthening tuberculosis (TB) prevention, diagnosis, and clinical management in Bangladesh, the National Institute of Diseases of the Chest and Hospital (NIDCH) and The Chest and Heart Association of Bangladesh (CHAB) jointly organized the Inauguration Ceremony of the TB Corner and the Unveiling of the Second Edition of the Clinical Guidelines of Pulmonary Tuberculosis at the NIDCH Auditorium, Mohakhali, Dhaka.

The day-long event brought together distinguished policymakers, healthcare leaders, pulmonologists, researchers, and medical professionals from across the country. Designed to reinforce Bangladesh's ongoing commitment to ending tuberculosis, the program highlighted the importance of evidence-based clinical practice, multidisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered care in combating one of the country's most persistent public health challenges.

The ceremony commenced at 10:00 AM with the formal inauguration of the newly established TB Corner, a dedicated information and resource centre within NIDCH aimed at supporting physicians, healthcare workers, patients, and caregivers with updated educational materials, clinical references, and awareness resources on tuberculosis.

Immediately following the inauguration, a tree plantation program was held within the hospital premises. The initiative symbolized growth, sustainability, and a shared commitment to building a healthier future. Distinguished guests, senior physicians, and organizers participated in the plantation program, reaffirming that environmental stewardship and public health are closely interconnected in promoting community well-being.

The program officially began with the recitation from the Holy Qur'an, creating a respectful and dignified atmosphere before the academic session.

A keynote presentation was delivered by Dr. A.S.M. Sazzad Hossain Shawon, Pulmonologist at NIDCH, on the topic "Tuberculosis in Bangladesh: Current Scenario, 2026." His presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the country's current TB burden, recent epidemiological trends, challenges in early diagnosis, treatment adherence, drug-resistant tuberculosis, and the importance of strengthening preventive strategies. He also highlighted the progress achieved through coordinated national efforts while emphasizing the need for continuous innovation, timely diagnosis, and adherence to updated clinical practices.

One of the most significant moments of the program was the official unveiling of the Second Edition of the Clinical Guidelines of Pulmonary Tuberculosis. The updated guideline represents an important milestone for healthcare professionals involved in tuberculosis management across Bangladesh.

Prepared with the objective of reflecting the latest scientific evidence, contemporary treatment protocols, and practical clinical recommendations, the revised guideline is expected to support physicians in making informed clinical decisions and ensuring standardized, high-quality care for TB patients. The publication also aligns with Bangladesh's national tuberculosis control strategies and international best practices, contributing to improved diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and patient safety.

The formal unveiling ceremony was conducted by the distinguished guests in the presence of senior clinicians, specialists, and representatives from various healthcare institutions, marking the official release of this valuable clinical resource.

The program was graced by Md. Qamruzzaman Chowdhury, Honourable Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, who attended as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, the Honourable Secretary emphasized the Government's unwavering commitment to strengthening tuberculosis control programmes through improved healthcare infrastructure, evidence-based clinical practice, capacity building, and enhanced collaboration among healthcare institutions. He appreciated the joint initiative undertaken by NIDCH and CHAB and expressed confidence that the establishment of the TB Corner and the publication of the updated clinical guideline would further enhance the quality of tuberculosis care throughout the country.

The event was also honoured by the presence of two distinguished Special Guests.

Professor Dr. Pravath Chandra Biswas, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), underscored the importance of continuous professional development and standardized clinical guidelines in improving healthcare delivery. He noted that updated clinical recommendations are essential for ensuring uniformity in diagnosis and treatment practices while addressing the evolving challenges posed by tuberculosis.

Dr. Md. Zahirul Islam Shakil, President of The Chest and Heart Association of Bangladesh (CHAB), Vice-Chairman of the Bangladesh Medical Research Council (BMRC), and Secretary General of the Diabetic Association of Bangladesh (DAB), highlighted the vital role of professional collaboration in advancing respiratory healthcare. He emphasized that sustained partnerships among academic institutions, professional organizations, and government agencies remain fundamental to achieving Bangladesh's long-term tuberculosis control objectives.

The program was chaired by Dr. Golam Sarwar Liaquat Hossain Bhuiyan, Director of the National Institute of Diseases of the Chest and Hospital (NIDCH) and Secretary General of The Chest and Heart Association of Bangladesh.

In his presidential address, Dr. Bhuiyan reaffirmed NIDCH's commitment to excellence in respiratory medicine, clinical education, research, and specialized patient care. He remarked that the newly established TB Corner would serve as an important educational platform for healthcare professionals and patients alike while promoting greater awareness of tuberculosis prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. He also expressed his sincere appreciation to all individuals and organizations whose collective efforts made the successful implementation of the initiative possible.

Throughout the programme, participants expressed optimism that the combination of an accessible educational resource centre and an updated national clinical guideline would strengthen the country's capacity to deliver timely, evidence-based tuberculosis care. The event also provided an excellent opportunity for clinicians, academicians, and healthcare administrators to exchange perspectives on current challenges and future priorities in TB management.

The successful organization of the event reflects the shared commitment of the National Institute of Diseases of the Chest and Hospital (NIDCH) and The Chest and Heart Association of Bangladesh (CHAB) to advancing respiratory healthcare through collaboration, professional education, and evidence-based clinical practice.

With the inauguration of the TB Corner, the release of the second edition of the Clinical Guidelines of Pulmonary Tuberculosis, and the symbolic tree plantation program, the initiative represents another meaningful step towards strengthening Bangladesh's national response to tuberculosis. Collectively, these efforts reaffirm the country's determination to improve patient care, promote clinical excellence, and contribute to the broader vision of a tuberculosis-free Bangladesh through knowledge, innovation, and coordinated action.