TB KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTION

TRENDS: EVIDENCE FROM PAKISTAN

Abstract

Objectives: To uncover the trend regarding TB knowledge and perception of
its transmission as well as underlining the socio demographics aspects associated with TB
cure among the reproductive venerable women. Methods: Quantitative frame work along with
inferential analysis have been carried out by using the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey
2006-07 and 2012-13 of ever married women. Results: Trend regarding TB awareness and its
cure and treatment have been changed over time by 4.31% and 4.49% respectively in PDHS
2012 compared to PDHS 2006. Whereas an adequate knowledge of TB transmission thought
air when coughing and sneezing remain constant after equating the two surveys. To understand
the functional relationship of variables multinomial logistic regression analysis was carried out
separately for PDHS 2006 and PDHS 2012. Two models revealed that early reproductive age
group 15-19 of ever married women believed that TB cannot be curable compared to their
counterparts upper age groups 45-49. Illiterate ever married women are more pronounced
[OR=5.38 and OR=10.30] that TB is an incurable infectious disease compared to women
having higher educational degree in PDHS 2006 and PDHS 2012 respectively. Location and
geographical area of residence, wealth index, and media exposure have positive association
about TB knowledge of cure and treatment. Conclusion: Although the awareness level improved
but it still needs to launch some massive and wide-ranging awareness programme regarding
an adequate knowledge of various diffusion modes of tuberculosis by utilizing all media modes
predominantly television. Potential struggles are obligatory where the subordinate literacy rate
and limited health care settings meticulousness in remote areas, so that the illness and death
due toTB can be minimized.