Awareness and Perceived Availability of Tuberculosis Control Program Services Among Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients in Lahore, Pakistan: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study
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Background: Effective tuberculosis (TB) control depends on service availability and patients’ awareness of program activities and available care. Evidence regarding awareness and perceived availability of TB control services among patients in Pakistan remains limited. Objective: To assess awareness of TB control program activities and perceived availability of preventive, treatment, and pharmacy services among patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: This multicenter descriptive cross-sectional study included 330 adults with documented PTB receiving treatment at eight healthcare facilities in Lahore between September 2023 and September 2024. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling and interviewed face-to-face using a structured questionnaire. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results: Only 46 (13.9%) participants reported an operational TB control program in their area, while 136 (41.2%) were unsure. Twelve (3.6%) had witnessed a program activity, none reported a visit by a TB control worker, and 65 (19.7%) reported receiving counselling. Preventive, treatment, and pharmacy services were perceived as available by 190 (57.6%), 138 (41.8%), and 198 (60.0%) participants, respectively. Conclusion: Awareness of TB control activities was limited, with substantial uncertainty regarding service availability. Improved counselling, patient education, and service communication may strengthen care navigation
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