Tuberculosis In Anambra State Nigeria: Socio-Cultural Considerations And Health Seeking Behaviour.
I. L. Amobi

SUMMARY

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health problem especially in developing countries. In spite of control activities in Nigeria since 1942, TB control objectives do not seem to have been achieved.

Objective: This qualitative study was designed to ascertain the socio-cultural considerations, nosology and health-seeking behaviour with regard to TB in Ozubulu, Anambra State Nigeria so as to discuss the implication for TB control in the area.

Methods: The study method was participant observation, focussed group discussions, key informant and indepth interviews.

Results: The study revealed that diseases are classified according to perceived causation into natural and unnatural diseases with TB being classified as unnatural disease. There is poor knowedge of the microbial aetiology. Natural diseases are perceived to respond to treatment with orthodox medicine, while unnatural diseases respond to traditional native drugs. TB is therefore perceived not to respond to orthodox medicine. Family therapy group, quality of care and ability to seek care are key considerations in seeking health care.

Conclusion: It is concluded that community perceptions, nosology, and health seeking behaviour of Ozubulu people in regard to TB is not favourable for TB control. There is need for community and school-based health education on TB in order to improve awareness of the microbial aetiology of TB, so as to pave way for prompt self-reporting to competent facilities for appropriate management. Niger Med J. 2003; Vol 45 (1):