Knowledge and awareness of tuberculosis in caregivers of paediatric tuberculosis patients of north Gujarat region, India: a cross sectional study

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be one of the most important public health problems worldwide. Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of tuberculosis, which is often difficult to diagnose and therefore difficult to treat effectively. The compliance for treatment can be increased if caregivers of paediatric TB patients are well aware about the disease, treatment and preventive measures. Methods: This cross sectional observational, descriptive epidemiological study was conducted at GMERS medical college and hospital Dharpur-Patan located in north Gujarat during January 2015 to June 2015. The study was conducted among all the 151 pediatric TB patients who were currently under treatment at selected hospital. Caregivers of the patients were informed about the purpose of the study and their informed written consent was taken. By interviewing them on the basis of pre-designed and pre tested preform, information regarding socio demographic profile, knowledge and awareness regarding TB was collected. The collected data was analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS 17 Trial version). Results: Only 68 (45.0 %) caregivers of patients had knowledge regarding mode of spread of TB infection to others. 89 (58.9%) caregivers of patients knew about curability of the disease. 104 (68.9%) caregivers of patients had knowledge regarding DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment Short course chemotherapy) centre for TB treatment under RNTCP (Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme). 32.3% caregivers of the patients knew that TB can be prevented by BCG vaccine. The literacy status had a significant influence on awareness about TB.  Conclusions: Apart from pharmacological treatment poor knowledge of tuberculosis in caregivers of the paediatric TB patients also needs great attention for better control and prevention of TB in paediatric age group.