The TB HEART Study, a research initiative led by Zambart, recently shed light on the significant burden of heart disease among tuberculosis (TB) patients in Zambia. The study which was conducted at Kanyama General Hospital’s Chest Clinic from November 2023 to October 2024, found that heart problems are more common in people with pulmonary TB (PTB) than previously recognized.
The study, had recruited 252 participants, revealed that certain blood tests may help identify people with TB who are at higher risk of developing heart problems, allowing for earlier intervention and treatment. The findings also suggest that updated guidelines on the use of anti-inflammatory medicines are needed to manage heart complications in people with TB, which may help reduce TB-related illness and death.
The TB HEART Study results were disseminated to over 50 stakeholders, including medical professionals, community leaders, and TB treatment supporters, at a meeting held at Kanyama General Hospital on October 23, 2025. The study’s principal investigator, Dr. Marcello Scopazzini, presented the findings, highlighting the need for further research to address the unanswered questions and explore new areas identified through the study.
The study also led to the creation of the Muqwilizano Project, a nutritional support program implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and funded by the French Embassy in Zambia. The program provides nutritional support to people with TB at Kanyama General Hospital.
Speaking at the meeting, Professor Helen Ayles, Director of Research at Zambart, emphasized that the TB HEART Study has created opportunities for further research to address the significant health challenges faced by people with TB.
“The TB HEART Study has opened our eyes to the need for more research to understand and address heart complications among people with TB,” she said.
Dr. Musowa Singoyi, Head of Clinical Care at Kanyama General Hospital, expressed appreciation to Zambart for sharing the study findings and encouraged staff to collaborate with the organization on future research initiatives. “The TB HEART study is an eye-opener to the other health-related challenges that people with TB face, and more research is needed to intervene,” he said.