Awareness Of Tuberculosis In Diverse Populations: The Socio-Demographic Effect
Chinyere Adaobi Nnaji
Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu State, Nigeria
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) continues to pose a significant public health challenge globally and remains particularly burdensome in Nigeria, which ranks fourth worldwide and first in Africa among the 22 high TB burden countries. Despite recent efforts by the Nigerian government to expand TB services and implement the Directly Observed Treatment Short-course (DOTS) strategy, coverage remains below the World Health Organization’s recommended levels. This study investigates the influence of socio-demographic characteristics on awareness of TB prevention and treatment among patients receiving care at the University of Nigeria DOTS Centre.
A cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving 125 TB patients who were interviewed using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings revealed a significant gap in knowledge regarding TB prevention, with 92% of respondents exhibiting poor understanding of preventive measures. However, awareness of treatment and cure was relatively high, as 65.6% demonstrated good knowledge of appropriate treatment practices.
The disparity between treatment knowledge and preventive awareness underscores the need for targeted public health interventions. Specifically, TB education strategies should be customized based on patients’ socio-demographic profiles to enhance awareness and adoption of preventive measures. Such approaches are crucial for reducing TB transmission rates and improving health outcomes. The study calls for urgent action by health authorities and stakeholders to strengthen educational components within TB control programs in Nigeria