Thomas B, Priscilla Rebecca B, Dhanalakshmi A, Rani S, Deepa Lakshmi A, Watson B, Vijayalakshmi R, Muniyandi M, Karikalan N. Effectiveness of TB sensitization initiatives in improving the involvement of self help group members in rural TB control in south India.
Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018;
110:714-720. [PMID:
28938052 DOI:
10.1093/trstmh/trx006]
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Abstract
Background
The 'End TB strategy' has highlighted the importance of inter-sectoral collaboration and community mobilization for achieving zero TB deaths by 2020.
Objective
The aim of the study was to develop and test a model TB sensitization programme involving self help groups (SHGs).
Methodology
This experimental study was conducted in two blocks (intervention and control), in Tiruvallur district. The intervention content included short-lecture, musical story telling activity, role play, short film on TB. The impact was compared at baseline, third and sixth months in terms of SHGs' awareness, promotion of awareness, identification and referral of presumptive TB cases and provision of TB treatment.
Results
A total of 764 vs 796 SHGs were enrolled in control and intervention groups, respectively. The knowledge attitude, and practice score (lower score indicated a better attitude and practice), from baseline to 6 months was significantly reduced (29 to 24) in the intervention group. Similarly, a significant difference was observed in identification and referral of chest symptomatics in the intervention group at 3 and 6 months. During the 3 month follow-up a significantly higher proportion of SHG members were involved in TB awareness activities in the intervention (623/748 [83.3%]) vs control group (471/728 [64.7%]; p<0.001).
Conclusions
Findings from this study highlight the feasibility of involving SHGs through a model TB sensitization program for strengthening TB prevention and control activities.
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