About Us
Rainbow TB Forum (RTBF) was formed in 2009 by a group of college students who had been stigmatized while getting tested forTB in a public hospital in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu, South India. Experiencing the injustices within the healthcare system, they decided to stand for their rights and become a voice for those affected by TB. Since its formation, RTBF has spread its wings and continues to grow within Tamil Nadu and beyond its state borders.
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Rainbow TB Forum (RTBF) now distinguishes itself as a network comprised solely of former and presently TB affected people. We operate on the conviction that TB is not only a medical condition, but a magnet for social discrimination. For that reason, we are committed to take responsibility to fight against stigma and discrimination associated with TB. Our mission aligns with United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and the government of India’s National Strategy to end TB by 2025.
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The RTBF is unique in its strong focus on TB prevention, treatment compliance, care after cure and education campaigns to fight stigma associated with TB. By doing this, we aim towards improving health and wellbeing, by fostering conversation and further societal acceptance of those afflicted with TB through a community support network.
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Over the years we have made meaningful progress and we continue to fight TB from the grassroots level in a sustainable way, by creating support networks within local communities. Our membership numbers have grown significantly; in 2017 alone, we welcomed more than 800 new members. Our campaign continues to receive positive responses and more and more people are being reached.
