TB Research

Current Landscape and Multidimensional Determinants of Spiritual Coping Mechanisms Among Tuberculosis Patients in Zhejiang, China: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Investigation

Lu L, Zheng L, Zhu Q, Qiu Q, Zhou T, Fu J, Pan X, Zheng G, et al. (9 authors)

Risk management and healthcare policy · 2025-07

Abstract

Aim Investigate the different spiritual coping strategies employed by tuberculosis patients during their illness and determine the multidimensional determinants influencing these adaptive strategies. Design Online cross-sectional design. Methods Between January and September 2024, 448 tuberculosis (TB) patients in Zhejiang Province, China, were recruited via WeChat-based outreach. Data collection was implemented through a digitally administered, self-report survey platform. Comprehensive statistical analyses were performed, including independent samples t -tests, one-way ANOVA for group comparisons, Pearson correlation coefficients for bivariate associations, and hierarchical multiple linear regression modeling to identify predictor clusters. This cross-sectional investigation rigorously adhered to the STROBE guidelines throughout its design, execution, and reporting phases. Results Among the 448 patients, 255 were male and 193 were female, with an average age of 47.45 (SD = 18.23) years. The factors influencing the level of Positive Spiritual Coping (PSC) were sex (t = -2.593, p = 0.010), residence (t = 2.317, p = 0.021), marital status (t = -2.485, p = 0.013), and economic indicators (F = 2.951, p = 0.032). The factors influencing the level of Negative Spiritual Coping (NSC) were age (F = 3.226, p = 0.041), marital status (t = 2.635, p = 0.009), alcohol consumption (t = 2.840, p = 0.005), number of children (t = 2.022, p = 0.044), and TB diagnosis type (t = -2.323, p = 0.021). The PSC level was negatively correlated with depression (p Conclusion TB patients exhibit better PSC levels in female patients, and higher PMS, BRS, and APGAR levels correlate with higher PSC levels. NSC levels are higher in patients without children and pulmonary TB, while higher BRS and APGAR levels are associated with lower NSC levels. These findings can help healthcare providers tailor person-centered spiritual care strategies for TB patients based on factors influencing spiritual coping, thereby improving their mental health during illness, reducing psychological distress, and facilitating earlier recovery.