Model alternative strategies for tuberculosis and Human immune deficiency virus case-finding in hard-to-reach populations in rural Eastern Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Since roughly half of all cases of active tuberculosis (TB) and Human immune deficiency virus (HIV) infection currently go undetected, there is a compelling need to pursue research aimed at improving case-finding, particularly among hard-to-reach populations.

OBJECTIVE

To identify and simplify TB/HIV case finding in Eastern Nigeria.

METHODS

This study involved an extensive pre-intervention Knowledge, Aptitude, Behavioural, Practice (KABP) Survey which revealed the specific limitations to TB/HIV case-finding using semi-structured questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. The second component investigated the role of existing strategies and resources in the study area, and identified ways of optimizing these strategies and also provided alternative strategies. The third phase evaluated the performance of the different strategies and the most effective methods of optimizing their use.

RESULTS

The pre- intervention KABP Survey showed that the majority of the population could ill afford the costs imposed by delays in TB/HIV diagnosis and treatment. Most of the patients dropped out completely at any stage on the path to successful treatment due to several reasons. Working at motor parks, accepted stop points and several other ways were found as effective methods of reaching the hard-to-reach population.

CONCLUSION

Findings from this study can be used for designing appropriate TB/HIV management and case- finding training materials for the training and use of TB/HIV health workers as well as providing information on TB/HIV case finding for National policy. Thorough consideration of the findings and subsequent implementation of them are highly recommended.