INTROSPECTION ON AWARENESS OF RURAL POPULATION OF WAYANAD ABOUT TUBERCULOSIS

Vasna C., Nimmy Njattumkalayil John*, Stanley John N. and G. Arul Kumaran

ABSTRACT

Background: Tuberculosis remains a major cause of death worldwide. WHO estimated that the prevalence of tuberculosis was 10 million in 2020. India accounted for 34% of global TB deaths. Wayanad, one of the districts in Kerala, have the highest TB suspect examination in the country. The treatment period, increased transmission, death, and financial need for the treatment could be the reason for the high prevalence rate. Therefore the knowledge, attitude and practice of the general population of Wayanad play an important role in TB elimination. Objective: This KAP survey is proposed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of the general public towards tuberculosis. The main strategy is to generate awareness on TB among the rural population of Wayanad. Methods: A pre structured questionnaire was prepared and a prospective cross sectional study was carried out.

Keywords: Tuberculosis, Prevalence.