Socio-Demographic and Economic Factors Influencing Adherence to TB Treatment in Mwingi East Sub-County, Kitui County, Kenya

Abstract

BACKGROUND Globally TB is documented to have the second highest fatality cases after HIV and AIDS. Among the continents, Africa has the highest rates of TB cases among HIV positive patients. Kenya is among the first 30 countries with the highest rates of TB infection. The high rates and burden as a result of TB is associated with the level of adherence to TB treatment. This study was aimed at determining the adherence to TB treatment and the socio demographic and economic factors influencing adherence to TB treatment among TB patients in Mwingi East Sub County, Kitui County, Kenya. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study employed a descriptive cross sectional study design where quantitative data was collected using a semi structured questionnaire. Clustered random sampling was applied to identify TB patients to be included in the study. The data collected was analyzed using SPSS version 20 at 95% confidence interval. Both descriptive and inferential statistics (regression analysis) were carried out. The data was presented using tables and graphs. RESULTS Based on the results, rates of adherence to uptake of TB drugs among the TB patients was 65.3%. Age and occupation were the only socio demographic and economic factors found to significantly influence adherence to TB treatment. CONCLUSION The government and stakeholders in the health sector should put in place awareness training strategies on TB management for younger populations. The government should also review the employment policy to increase sick offs days for employees suffering from TB.