2 research outputs found
Commnity knowledge, attitudes and practices towards tberculosis and its treatment in Mpwapwa District, central Tanzania
Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the leading causes of adult mortality with
32% of the global population infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. The current control of TB depends mainly on case management
using the Direct-Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTs) regimen.
Despite the measures taken, the disease burden is still on increase
especially in the developing countries including Tanzania. Correct
knowledge and positive perception of the community towards TB and its
management is a prerequisite to early treatment seeking. This study was
carried out in Mpwapwa district, central Tanzania, to assess the
knowledge, attitudes and practice as regards to TB and its treatment.
Focus group discussions involving men and women were conducted in six
villages. Results show that TB was an important public health problem.
However, community knowledge on its cause was poor. Symptoms of TB as
mentioned by the community included persistent cough and weight loss.
TB was reported to be transmitted mainly through air. Self medication
was the first most preferred option, whereas health care facility
consultation was the last one. Focus group discussants knew that TB
cure requires a 8-month period of treatment. Friends and relatives were
the main source of TB information in the community. In conclusion,
rural communities of Mpwapwa District have a low knowledge on the
causes and the transmission of tuberculosis which is a likely cause of
the delay in seeking treatment. An intensive appropriate community
health education is required for a positive behavioural change in
tuberculosis control