Tuberculosis affects thousands in Romania each year. In 2023, around 10,000 people developed TB, while 1,000 died from the disease. Despite continued efforts, critical challenges remain, including the identification and treatment of drug-resistant cases and TB-HIV co-infections. More than 800 people were still missed by the healthcare system, and over 200 were estimated to be living with DR-TB.
Our involvement in Romania began in 2016 through the E-DETECT TB project. We delivered EasyDR digital X-ray systems along with our CAD4TB for a project focused on reaching vulnerable populations using mobile X-ray units equipped with molecular diagnostic tools. In partnership with the National Institute of Pneumophtisiology “Marius Nasta” and supported by PNPSCT, mobile teams carried out radiological screenings and sputum culture tests in communities across the country.
E-DETECT TB united leading institutions such as University College London’s Find & Treat Service, KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation TB, and national stakeholders. Under the leadership of the Romanian National TB Control Program and the Marius Nasta Institute, the project helped bring forward mobile and AI-driven TB screening in Europe. Individuals diagnosed with TB were connected to care and supported throughout treatment, in line with Romania’s national TB control strategy.
Building on that foundation, 5 Delft Light systems were provided to the Ministry of Health in Romania in 2022 and deployed in Bucharest to continue supporting TB detection efforts. In 2024, the Ministry added another Delft Light to its screening network. Most recently, in 2025, a Delft Light system with CAD4TB was delivered by Health Through Walls to Jilava Prison Hospital, helping to ensure early TB detection in closed settings where transmission risks are high.
Making a difference
Research paper
The success of the E-Detect TB project, particularly CAD4TB on the field, was actively discussed. A study observed that using mobile X-ray and CAD4TB to identify TB among high-risk groups improves early TB diagnosis and can significantly contribute to TB control in Romania.
