S E T T I N G :Both depression and tuberculosis (TB) are global public health problems that have a substantial impact on human health. However, depressive state among TB patients has not been well investigated in the Philippines. O B J E C T I V E : To assess depressive state among pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients and to identify factors associated with depressive state in Manila, the Philippines. D E S I G N : A cross-sectional survey of PTB patients was conducted at 10 public health centres and two nongovernment organisation clinics providing DOTS in District I, Tondo, Manila. Face-to-face interviews with 561 PTB patients using a structured questionnaire were conducted. R E S U LT S : Depressive state was observed in 16.8% of the participants. Logistic regression analysis indicated that body mass index < 18.5 kg/m 2 , marital status of cohabitation compared with married, four or more symptoms, four or more adverse drug reactions, grade 3 or higher on the Medical Research Council dyspnoea scale and low perceived confidant social support were significantly associated with depressive state.

World Health Organization and Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

SummaryIs a published research paper an important indicator of successful operational research at programme level in low-income countries? In academia, publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals is highly encouraged and strongly pursued for academic recognition and career progression. In contrast, for those who engage in operational research at programme level, there is often no necessity or reward for publishing the results of research studies; it may even be criticized as being an unnecessary detraction from programme-related work. We present arguments to support publishing operational research from low-income countries; we highlight some of the main reasons for failure of publication at programme level and suggest ways forward.

Strain clustering suggests community transmission plays a critical role in incidence.