Awareness on Tuberculosis/DOTS among Private Practitioners In and Around Chennai.

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis [TB] continues to be a major public health problem in India with an estimated 2.7 million new cases and approximately 2.2 million deaths in 2015.The private sector caters to more than 50% of the TB care in India. Various studies done have shown that the awareness and the knowledge of the private practitioners are not adequate. Aim: This study was done to assess the awareness and knowledge of PPs [Private Practitioners] in and around Chennai with regard to TB diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and DOTS [Directly Observed Therapy, Short-course]. Methods: Questionnaire on different aspects of tuberculosis management and DOTS was given to participants who are medical doctors and managing patients of TB and the results were analysed. Results: 41.6% suspect tuberculosis based on cough and expectoration more than 2 weeks. 60.4% preferred CXR [Chest X-ray] for diagnosis and monitoring pulmonary TB patients. There was overreliance on Mantoux and other investigations not recommended by RNTCP [Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program]. 65.3% would not screen contacts of TB patients. 76.2% would treat the patients but don't prefer DOTS. 96% of PPs had not maintained any record for the TB patients and 97% preferred daily therapy. Conclusion: Awareness and knowledge about tuberculosis and DOTS is low among PPs in and around Chennai is low. The PPs need adequate training on RNTCP/DOTS and they need to be properly motivated. The public sector needs to collaborate and coordinate with the private practitioners for better diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis patients so that it not only gives a cure for the patients but also prevents drug resistance.