Public Perception of the Design of Health Communication Media in the Efforts to Prevent Tuberculosis

Abstract

Tuberculosis is a disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. This disease is the second leading cause of infectious death. Based on the recording of Buludoang Community Health Center staff in Bangkala Barat District, Jeneponto Regency, 41 people were found to have suffered from tuberculosis from January to early September 2018. Planning for health communication media requires community and needs analysis, because each region has different cultures and habits. The accuracy of designing the media has an impact on the awareness of TB sufferers and the community. When used appropriately, health communication can influence attitudes, perceptions, awareness, knowledge, and social norms that influence behavior. This study uses a qualitative method with a phenomenological design. The method of data collection is done by using the method of observation, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGD). Informants are patients or families of patients with pulmonary TB, as well as health workers. Data collection is done by: 1. Observation of participation; 2. In-depth interviews; 3. Focus group discussions. The method of taking informants is done by using purposive sampling technique. Based on research, obtained the following results; 1). The community understands that tuberculosis is a contagious disease through sputum and air sparks, accompanied by symptoms of increased body temperature for several days. TB is also believed to cause decreased appetite, weight loss, insomnia and cause death. 2). The current weaknesses of the media in terms of images are considered scary and discriminatory, and are not distributed to the community. 3). The media desired by the informant is electronic media with the reason that they can see pictures, hear sounds and can provide entertainment.