Abstract

LEVEL OF PATIENT ADHERENCE TO ANTI-TUBERCULOSIS TREATMENT IN MEKELLE TUBERCULOSIS DIRECT OBSERVED THERAPY CENTERS, TIGRAY, NORTH ETHIOPIA.

Getachew G/Medhin*, Wudma Alemu and Berhe Desalegne

ABSTRACT

Background: Tuberculosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Ethiopia. Ethiopia is among the 22 high tuberculosis and the 27 high Multi Drug Resistance Tuberculosis burden Countries in the world. Non-adherence to anti tuberculosis treatment is one of the crucial challenges in improving tuberculosis cure rates and reducing further healthcare costs. The poor adherence to anti-tuberculosis treatment among patients with tuberculosis is a major problem in Ethiopia. The aim of this study is to assess level of non-adherence to antituberculosis therapy among patients with tuberculosis in the study sites. Methods: An institution based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among tuberculosis patients who were following antituberculosis treatment in tuberculosis centers from May to June; 2014. A total of 162 newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients were involved. The study was conducted in 12 health facilities with tuberculosis centers and the sample size was allocated for respective tuberculosis centers based on proportional to size ratio and each study subjects was obtained by simple random sampling using lottery method. Data were collected by the principal investigators using a pre- tested structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was employed by using SPSS version 16 statistical software. Summary tables, figures and charts were used for describing data. Results: A total of 162 tuberculosis patients were interviewed; 63.6% were males and nearly two in three (64.5%) were urban dwellers. The overall non-adherence for the last four days before the survey was about 18%. Forgetfulness (43.3%), far distance (33.3%) and traveling to other places (20%) were the most frequent reasons for missing the anti-TB pills. Conclusion: There is immense need for continuous, effective and reinforcing health education to the patient and his family. Special groups like patients who do not have any family support need special attention to ensure adherence to anti-tuberculosis treatment. An approach, targeting easier access to drugs, an ensured drug supply, effective solutions for travel-related concerns and modification of smoking and alcohol related behaviors are essential for treatment adherence.

Keywords: Adherence, Anti-tuberculosis treatment, Non-adherence.