Indian Journal of Preventive & Social Medicine
Determinants of Adherence to DOTS Therapy in drug-Sensitive Tuberculosis: A Cross-Sectional Study from NITRD, New Delhi
By Navaj Shareph, S. Geetha Rajkumar, Khalid Umer Khayam and 1 others.
Abstract
Background
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health concern, with India bearing the highest burden. Despite the proven efficacy of the Directly Observed Treatment Short-Course (DOTS) strategy, non-compliance continues to hinder treatment success and threatens TB elimination targets.
Aim
To assess the compliance of drug-sensitive TB (DS-TB) patients with DOTS therapy at NITRD, New Delhi, and to identify socio-demographic, behavioural, and health system factors influencing adherence.
Methods
A descriptive survey design was used, involving 350 DS-TB patients in the continuation phase of DOTS therapy at selected NITRD-affiliated DOTS and microscopy centres. Data were collected through record review, structured interviews, a knowledge questionnaire, and an attitude scale. Descriptive statistics summarised participant characteristics and compliance rates, while Chi-square and Pearson’s correlation tests examined associations and relationships.