KNOWLEDGE ABOUT TUBERCULOSIS AMONG PATIENTS ATTENDING TUBERCULOSIS TREATMENT IN NORTHWESTERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Adherence to therapy in patients with tuberculosis is a major determinant of their outcomes. Unfortunately, there is no currently known single predictor of adherence, given that this phenomenon represents a complex task specific behavior. Key factors influencing the efficacy of tuberculosis control program need to be identified. The objective of this study is to assess the level of patients' knowledge on the cause, mode of transmission and preventive methods of tuberculosis and to determine the socio-demographic profiles of patients that influence their knowledge.

METHODS: This cross sectional study was conducted, among 314 tuberculosis patients in five health institutions in North Gondar Zone. Respondents were selected using systematic sampling technique, Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire.

RESULTS: Based on the criteria set for knowledge, only 14.7% of patients had overall correct knowledge. There was misconception about the cause, mode of transmission and prevention and only 15% knew the cause of tuberculosis. Regarding mode of transmission 74% knew at least one, 95% had no doubt on curability of TB, 43% knew the duration of treatment and only 34% knew about the side effects of drugs. Their knowledge was found to be influenced by the level of education, area of residence, and having a health teaching at health institutions.

CONCLUSION: The overall correct knowledge of tuberculosis patients is surprisingly low. Efforts to strengthen health education in tuberculosis clinics should be fostered.