Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Toward Tuberculosis Among Hospital Outpatients in Urozgan, Afghanistan

Objectives: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern in Afghanistan, with an incidence of 180 cases per 100,000 in 2023. Socioeconomic instability, low literacy, and cultural stigma worsen the burden. Limited research on knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in underserved areas like Urozgan highlights the need for targeted interventions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 425 outpatients in Urozgan’s public health facilities (August 2022–May 2023). Participants (≥18 years) were selected via convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS 28. Chi-square tests examined factors influencing KAP. Results: The mean age was 38.18 years, with 47.1% aged 26–45. Most were male (56.5%), married (57.6%), illiterate (57.6%), and unemployed (71.8%). Knowledge gaps included misconceptions about hereditary transmission (51.8%) and shaking hands (25.9%), while 49.4% recognized droplet inhalation as the main mode. Poor knowledge correlated with low income (83.3%) (p < 0.001) and illiteracy (57.1%) (p = 0.005). Negative attitudes were prevalent (55.3%), highest among low-income groups (83.3%) (p < 0.001). Practices were inadequate; only 35.3% underwent TB screening, 54.1% practiced cough hygiene, and 49.4% opened car windows while traveling. Poor practices were linked to low income (83.3%) (p < 0.001), illiteracy (65.3%) (p < 0.001), and younger age (≤25 years) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Significant KAP gaps persist due to misconceptions, stigma, and inadequate practices. Targeted health education campaigns are crucial for improving TB awareness and prevention, particularly among vulnerable groups.