Epidemiological profile of Tuberculosis patients in Vijayapura, North Karnataka: A hospital-based study.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, despite advancements in its treatment. TB, a respiratory illness transmitted through the air, continues to impact millions worldwide, with 10.6 million cases reported in 2022, marking an increase from previous years. The disease perpetuates economic hardship and poverty, affecting individuals, families, and communities. In India, the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) reported a record high of 24.2 lakh cases in 2022, with substantial improvements in TB surveillance and case-finding strategies. The relationship between TB and malnutrition is bidirectional, with each exacerbating the other. Addressing the social determinants of TB through coordinated, multi-sectoral approaches is crucial for effective TB control. However, there is limited information on the socio-epidemiological factors influencing TB in regions like northern Karnataka. This study focuses on examining these factors in patients with drug-sensitive and drug-resistant TB in the Vijayapura district. AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY 1. To assess the sociodemographic details, previous treatment history and clinical characteristics of T.B patients. 2. To understand the health-seeking behaviour and nutritional status of T.B. patients. 3. To evaluate comorbidities among T.B patients. METHODOLOGY This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2023 at BLDE (Deemed to be University) Shri B. M. Patil Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Vijayapura, anagricultural district with a high TB burden. The study population included TB patients aged over 18 years who were treated at the hospital. Using convenient sampling, 180 patients were interviewed face-to-face with semi-structured questionnaires and underwent anthropometric measurements. Ethical clearance was obtained, and informed consent was assured. Inclusion criteria encompassed all diagnosed TB cases admitted during the study period, while exclusion criteria included non-consenting, critically ill patients, and pregnant or lactating women. RESULTS The study population comprised 63% males and 37% females, with a higher representation of young to middle-aged adults (37.2% aged 21-40). About 25.6% were uneducated, and socioeconomically, most participants were from middle or lower-middle-class backgrounds. Farmers (22.8%) and daily laborers (20.6%) were the predominant occupations, and 46.7% belonged to nuclear families. Among the 180 participants, 88.3% were newly diagnosed with TB, and 11.7% had a previous TB diagnosis. The majority (87.8%) had no history of contact with TB cases, and 58.9% had been vaccinated with BCG. Extrapulmonary TB was present in 51.1% of cases. HIV prevalence was low (1.1%), and 16.1% had diabetes. Most participants were non-smokers (74%) and non-alcoholics (75.6%).Housing conditions varied, with half living in pucca houses and 28.9% experiencing overcrowding. The majority (90%) were diagnosed through sputum examination. Hygiene practices showed 66.7% used facemasks, and 57.8% had correct cough etiquette knowledge. Nutritionally, 53.9% were underweight, while 31.7% had a normal weight. Pulmonary TB was more common among smokers and alcoholics, while extrapulmonary TB was more prevalent among non-smokers and non-alcoholics. Diabetic patients had a higher prevalence of pulmonary TB (72.4%). Educational status influenced the choice of initial consultation, with higher-educated individuals preferring private hospitals. Previous TB diagnosis and treatment completion status also impacted thechoice of healthcare facilities. There was a significant association between BMI and TB type, with underweight individuals more likely to have pulmonary TB. CONCLUSION This cross-sectional study at BLDE (Deemed to be University) Shri B. M. Patil Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Vijayapura, analyzed socio-demographic factors and healthcare-seeking behaviors among 180 TB patients. Significant associations were found between smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, BMI, and TB types. Educational status influenced healthcare-seeking behavior, with more educated individuals preferring private facilities. Previous TB diagnoses affected current treatment choices. These findings highlight the need for tailored health interventions to improve TB treatment adherence and healthcare accessibility, especially in high-prevalence areas