TITLE:
Assessment of Factors Contributing to TB Treatment Adherence among Patients on TB Treatment in Kano State, Nigeria: A Case Study
AUTHORS:
Jennifer Anyanti, Selema Akuiyibo, Omokhudu Idogho, Stephen Ohuneni, Chinwoke Isiguzo
KEYWORDS:
Tuberculosis, DOTS, Treatment Adherence, Treatment Outcome
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Tuberculosis Research,
Vol.8 No.4,
November
16,
2020
ABSTRACT: Background:
The WHO recommended DOTS has been proven to be very effective in the treatment
of tuberculosis (TB) patients. However, despite its effectiveness,
non-adherence to the treatment regimen remains a major concern in TB
management. This has great consequences which include persistent
infectiousness, higher rates of treatment failure, continued transmission, drug
resistance, and untimely death. The aim of this study is to examine the factors
and behavioural patterns that contribute to treatment adherence among TB
patients in Kano State, Nigeria. Methods: A qualitative study design which
included two focus group discussions (FGDs) and four key informant interviews
(KIIs) were adopted for this study. In total, 20 participants were interviewed
comprising 16 focus group discussion participants (8 patients on treatment and
8 individuals who have been cured) divided into two groups and four key
informant interviews with 4 health workers in the selected treatment
facilities. Data analysis was done by translating and transcribing the
responses from the FGDs and KIIs. The transcribed data was analysed using a
thematic framework procedure. Results: It was observed that having a good
treatment supporter who was effective and very supportive was the most
important factor contributing to treatment adherence. Other identified factors
that contributed to treatment adherence included: good communication by health
personnel, social support from relatives and communities, little or no side
effects from drug usage, low cost of transportation to the health facilities, a
positive mind set towards drug usage and treatment, support and motivation from
health workers, feelings of wellness during treatment, and a balanced diet. All
the respondents agreed that treatment adherence had far reaching effects on
positive treatment outcomes. Conclusion: For better treatment adherence, a competent treatment supporter should
be available for TB patients. Health care workers should ensure that effective communication and a cordial relationship do exist
with TB patients. Also, TB patients should be properly counselled before the
commencement of their treatment regimen to help them maintain a positive
mind-set towards treatment. Finally, TB interventions should provide adequate
social support for patients.