Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis in Portugal: Patients’ Perception of the Challenges Faced during Treatment

• Type: Article in National Scientific Journal
• Date: 2020

Authors

Bhering, M (Author) Other; Junior, VS (Author) Other; Kritski, A (Author) Other; Souza, FBA (Author) Other; Duarte R (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Portuguese Journal of Public Health

Publisher: Karger

Indexing

Scopus - 1 Citation

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00T-61N

DOI: 10.1159/000511198

Abstract (EN): Introduction: The increase in drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) threatens global progress in eliminating TB, and constitutes a major challenge for patients, health-care workers and health services. Treatment for multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) can last almost 2 years, and is more expensive, more toxic, and less effective than treating TB caused by drug-sensitive bacilli. This study aims to analyze patients¿ narratives about the challenges they face during MDR-TB treatment and identify the support factors that help patients being treated in the most populous district of Portugal. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients being treated for MDR-TB. The interviews were coded using thematic analysis. They were audio-recorded, transcribed, and transported into NVivo v12 for data management and coding. Results: Depression, social discrimination, and the side effects of drugs are the main challenges faced by patients with MDR-TB. A good relationship of the patients with the health team, emotional support, and supervised treatment stand out as the factors that generate better adherence and treatment success. Conclusion: In addition to modern diagnostic techniques and new treatments, MDR-TB can be fought by focusing on the care and needs of patients. We suggest that the Lisbon Tuberculosis Program adopts the following measures: build the health-care team¿s capacity to identify symptoms of depression early, increase public awareness of the disease, expand the multidisciplinary team, and expand the options for individualized social support for patients. © 2020 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel on behalf of NOVA National School of Public Health

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific