THE PREVALENCE OF TUBERCULOSIS TREATMENT DEFAULT AND ITS RELATED FACTORS: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY AMONG TB PATIENTS IN TBL UNIT, OSE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ONDO STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the prevalence of TB treatment default and identify associated socio-demographic and clinical factors among TB patients attending the TBL Unit in Ose Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. A retrospective review of patient records was conducted at the TBL Unit in Ose LGA. Data were collected on treatment adherence, patient demographics, and potential predictors of treatment default. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the relationship between treatment default and various socio-demographic variables. The study included a total of 120 respondents, representing all participants whose records met the study criteria. The study found a significant prevalence of treatment default among TB patients in the study area. Key factors associated with default included low literacy levels, socioeconomic challenges, stigma, and limited access to healthcare facilities. The duration and complexity of treatment regimens were also identified as major contributors to non-adherence. TB treatment default remains a critical barrier to effective TB control in Ose LGA, Ondo State. Addressing socio-economic, educational, and healthcare access issues, alongside community sensitization and patient support, is essential to improving treatment adherence. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and enhanced patient education to reduce default rates and improve TB outcomes in the region.
Keywords: Tuberculosis, Treatment Default, Prevalence, Socio-demographic Factors, Ondo State, Nigeria, TB Control, MDR-TB
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