Burden of stigma among tuberculosis patients in a pastoralist community in Kenya: A mixed methods study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240457
• Publication Date: 2020-10-15T18:40:17Z
• Authors: Grace Wambura Mbu...; Henry D. N. Nyamo...; Silvia S. Chiang; Stephen T. McGarvey
• Keywords: Stigma; Thematic Analysis; Social stigma

Background Tuberculosis (TB) stigma remains a barrier to early diagnosis and treatment completion. Increased understanding of is necessary for improved interventions minimise TB its effects. The purpose this study quantitatively measure explore qualitatively manifestation among patients in rural Kenyan community. Methods This hospital based using explanatory sequential mixed methods approach was conducted 2016. In the quantitative part study, questionnaire containing socio-demographic characteristics scales measuring perceived experienced stigma, administered 208 adult pulmonary receiving West Pokot County. Respondents with high were purposively selected take in-depth interviews focus group discussions. qualitative data collected through 15 6 discussions patients. Descriptive bivariate analysis done while thematic data. Results internal consistency reliability coefficients satisfactory Cronbach alphas 0.87 0.86 11-item 12-item measurement scale. investigation revealed that high. key drivers association HIV/AIDS fear transmission. exemplified being isolated by others, self-isolation, disclose diagnosis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) lack social support. Being woman significantly associated levels both (p = 0.007) 0.005) age, marital status, occupation patient's religion not. Conclusion There need implement reduction order improve program outcomes.