Symptom awareness and action taking of persons with pulmonary tuberculosis in rural communities surveyed repeatedly to determine the epidemiology of the disease

Narayan, Radha and Srikantaramu, N. (1981) Symptom awareness and action taking of persons with pulmonary tuberculosis in rural communities surveyed repeatedly to determine the epidemiology of the disease. Indian Journal of Tuberculosis, 28 (3). pp. 126-129.

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Abstract

Fifty one persons aged 20 years and above classified by X-ray as ‘probably tuberculosis, possibly active’ and ‘probably tuberculosis and active’ in the fifth round of the Longitudinal Survey in 22 villages, were interviewed on a structured questionnaire to elicit the awareness of symptoms and details of action taken to seek relief. Almost all of those bacteriologically positive were aware of symptoms suggestive of tuberculosis, thus registering a higher percentage of awareness than the X-ray positives. Of those with symptoms, 58.8 % sought relief, many of them at multiple agencies such as Govt. hospitals and private practitioners and some at tuberculosis hospitals, on being referred there. Most had obtained services free of cost and appreciated the available intrinsic benefits. Prior personal or family associations were the main reasons for seeking the services of private practitioners. Only 23 % had gone to the nearest health facilities. Lack of proper facilities for good treatment and preference to be treated at urban centres were the main reasons for not availing of the services at the nearest health facilities.

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