Level, Experiences and Manifestations of Community TB-Related Stigma in Tanzania

<i>Background:</i> Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease of public importance worldwide including Tanzania. There is increasing recognition that TB-related stigma is a barrier to TB control and prevention. However, there is a paucity of information about community TB-related stigma in our settings. This study was objected to assess the level, experiences, and manifestations of community TB-related stigma.<i> Methods</i>: Between September 2021 and February 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted to collect quantitative and qualitative information about community TB-related stigma in five regions of Tanzania. Face-to-face interviews were used to collect data among community members using a modified questionnaire to assess community TB stigma created by the Stop TB Partnership. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to summarize and present findings of this study. <i>Results</i>: One hundred seventy-one (171) community members were recruited. The overall level of community TB-related stigma was 71.5%. The TB stigma was mainly characterized by supporting behaviours and attitudes that limit contact with TB patients. Sixty-three percent (63%) of the community members experienced community members being stigmatized because of their TB status. The common manifestations of community TB-related stigma were isolation, mistreatment, being denied supports, and refusing to share housing, eating and drinking utensils. <i>Conclusion</i>: This study showed a relatively high level of community TB-related stigma in Tanzania, suggesting the need to include TB stigma reduction interventions in national TB control and prevention response strategies.