Why tuberculosis control in an unstable country is essential: desperate TB patients embrace DOTS in Angola.

After decades of war, the tuberculosis situation in Angola is alarming. The author describes his experiences with the implementation of a DOTS TB programme adapted to the difficult circumstances in a town partly inhabited by displaced people. The high motivation of both patients and health care workers is an important factor for its successful implementation. The need for international support of tuberculosis control programmes also in war-ridden countries is stressed.