A systematic review exploring the role of tuberculosis stigma on test and treatment uptake for tuberculosis infection

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) stigma may be a barrier to engagement in testing and treatment for TB infection (TBI). We systematically reviewed the available evidence on how TB stigma influences engagement with TBI testing and treatment. METHODS: Electronic databases (e.g., CINAHL, Central, OVID) were searched from 1963 to 1st August 2024. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies reporting the effects of TB stigma on engagement with TBI testing and treatment were included in the review. Descriptive synthesis was applied to the quantitative studies, and thematic analysis was applied to qualitative studies. The risk of bias was assessed by using the mixed methods appraisal tool. RESULTS: Seventeen studies were included in the review (12 qualitative, four quantitative and one mixed methods). TB stigma was complex and multifactorial with six overlapping domains: public, anticipated, self, experienced, secondary, and structural. Perceptions or experiences of stigma were associated with lower rates of engagement in testing and adherence to treatment in TBI. CONCLUSIONS: Perceptions of TB stigma among people with TBI were related to the common social representation of TB disease such as its being contagious or disease of the poor. Negative perceptions of active TB appear to carry over to its infection, despite people being informed about the nature of TBI. Our findings could inform more effective communication to support TBI testing and treatment engagement.