Gender Bias Issues Among Women Dropping Out of Tuberculosis Treatment in Batanghari Regency, Jambi, Indonesia

Background: One primary objective of a tuberculosis (TB) eradication program is the recovery of patients. Consistent medication intake is vital for TB sufferers to achieve recovery, as discontinuation or dropout can impede progress. Gender bias stemming from differences in social roles between men and women may influence the utilization of TB treatment programs. This study seeks to provide an overview of gender bias in the utilization of TB treatment programs. Methods: This qualitative research study employed an exploratory descriptive approach to examine the experiences of gender bias among six women who withdrew from TB treatment in Batanghari regency, Jambi Province, Indonesia. Data were collected in September 2023 through in-depth interviews and analyzed using content analysis techniques. Results: The causes of dropping out of TB treatment in women included the patient’s negligence in taking medication, side effects, and financial and psychological obstacles. Conditions of gender bias were related to the dominant role of men in a household, which causes role stereotypes, double burdens, subordination, and marginalization. As a result, women’s health inherently was given less priority than men's. This is in contrast to the TB treatment services that were assessed as equal for men and women. Conclusion: Our results reflect the role that gender values play in determining the quality of support for women in utilizing TB treatment programs. We recommend improving social structures related to gender role equality and increasing support for women undergoing TB treatment. Keywords: Gender bias, tuberculosis, treatment, dropout