An exploratory mixed method study on the follow up status and quality of life among recurrent tuberculosis patients in South India.

INTRODUCTION: After completion of treatment of Tuberculosis (TB), many patients can have long-term physical sequelae, which in some cases results in life-long impairment and further stigma.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the follow up status and quality of life of post-treatment among Category 2 TB patients under RNTCP and to explore the factors affecting the Quality of Life.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present study was done in urban area of Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu using Exploratory mixed methods study design. In the first phase case-control study was conducted with 100 post treatment category 2 TB patients (cases) and 100 non-TB patients (controls) matched for age and gender. The quality of life of the respondents was assessed by (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire (Quantitative), followed by five in-depth interviews among cases with extreme scores (Qualitative).

RESULTS: The mean scores of "perceived physical health" and "perceived psychological health" among cases after completion of treatment was significantly lower than the mean scores in controls. The determinants for perceived physical health were age, years of education and marital status. The determinants for psychological health were age, marital status and associated comorbidities. In-depth interview explored that major perspectives of cases affecting quality of life were side effects of drugs, loss of social support, loss of employment and psychological factors like anxiety, depression.

CONCLUSIONS: HR-QOL among post treatment TB patients was reduced. Efforts should be made to counsel TB patients, family members, relatives and their workplace regarding their care, support and challenges to have a reasonable QOL.