The prevalence of factors contributing to non-adherence to TB treatment in Lukhanji LSA (Queenstown), South Africa
Date
2012-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Tuberculosis remains a problem in Lukhanji Local Service Area (LSA) where the number of patients notified to authorities is reportedly increasing. This study, undertaken at various clinics in Lukhanji LSA, shows that non-adherence to TB treatment remains a challenge. The aim of this study was to identify the main factors contributing to this situation and to make recommendations.
Methods: This was an unmatched case-control observational study using the data relating to patients undergoing treatment. The collection of data took place from December 2010 to June 2011. Two groups were studied: (i) those who did not adhere and (ii) those who did adhere to the prescribed treatment. The data from these two groups was compared. Prevalence of non-adherence was determined. In addition, the prevalence of factors studied were estimated and odds ratios were used to determine factors significantly associated with non-adherence.
Results: Data was obtained from 195 patients, 98(50.26%) of whom were non-adherent and 97(49.74%) adherent. The following factors were significantly associated with non-adherence to TB treatment in this community: loss of hope; school or work commitments; patients' marital status; patients' under arrest; lack of support; involvement in drug abuse; TB denial and tablets not available from the clinics. For these factors, the odds ratios were more than one indicating that these factors are more likely to contribute to non-adherence in the non-adherent group
Conclusion: The prevalence of factors contributing to non-adherence to TB treatment in this community is high. This was despite the fact that there is no charge TB drug. There is an urgent need for health authorities in this community to take strong action to improve patients' adherence to TB treatment.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Nie beskikbaar nie.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Nie beskikbaar nie.
Description
Thesis (MMedFam)--Stellenbosch University, 2015.
Keywords
Tuberculosis -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Queenstown, UCTD, Patient compliance -- South Africa -- Queenstown