Determinants of Self-Reported Correct Knowledge About Tuberculosis Transmission Among Men and Women in Malawi: Evidence from a Nationwide Household Survey.

Abstract

Background: Correct knowledge about transmission of tuberculosis (TB) can influence better health-seeking behaviors, and in turn, it can aid TB prevention in society. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and predictors of self-reported correct knowledge about TB transmission among adults in Malawi.Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of the data obtained from the Malawi Demographic and Health Survey, 2015/16 (MDHS 2015/16). Questions regarding self-reported TB transmission were computed to evaluate the correct knowledge about TB transmission. The factors associated with the correct knowledge about Tb were assessed using univariate and multivariable logistic regression.Results: Overall, the prevalence of correct knowledge about TB transmission in the general population of Malawian adults was 61.5%. Specifically, the prevalence of correct knowledge about TB transmission was 63.6% and 60.8% in men and women, respectively. Those aged 35–44 years, having secondary or high education, belonging to the richest household, being exposed to mass media, being in professional/technical/managerial, having knowledge that “TB can be cured’, and those living in urban areas were significantly associated with correct knowledge about TB transmission.Conclusions: The findings of this study show that if appropriate strategies for TB communication and education to address the rural masses, young individuals, poor individuals, and individuals in the agriculture sector are put it place, can enhance TB prevention in Malawi.

Tuberculosis Knowledge and Delayed Health Care Seeking Among New Diagnosed Tuberculosis Patients in Primary Health Facilities in an Urban District, South Africa

“…23 We found that high overall TB knowledge was significantly associated with educational status, and action taken at the onset of their symptoms. Contrary to prior studies, 30,33 overall high knowledge about TB was not significantly associated with gender and health-seeking practice. As far as TB treatment is concerned, a large majority of patients were not aware that TB treatment lasts for 6 months.…”

“…The finding is in agreement with previous studies conducted in South Africa and other sub-Saharan countries. 23,[30][31][32] Of concern is that, consistent with previous research in South Africa, a substantial proportion of patients incorrectly assumed that TB can also be transmitted through the sharing of utensils. 23 We found that high overall TB knowledge was significantly associated with educational status, and action taken at the onset of their symptoms.…”

“…34 Having the correct knowledge about TB symptoms and transmission is crucial for prevention, early screening, diagnosis, and early treatment-seeking behaviors for TB suspects thereby improving the management of TB. 30 Over half (56.3%) of patients delayed seeking care after the onset of their symptoms. Patients took a mean of 40 days and a median of 30 days to first visit a health facility after the onset of their symptoms.…”

“…34 Having the correct knowledge about TB symptoms and transmission is crucial for prevention, early screening, diagnosis, and early treatment-seeking behaviors for TB suspects thereby improving the management of TB. 30…”