A Mixed-method Study on Psychosocial Barriers and Challenges Experienced by Multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis Patients and their Caregivers through the Course of Diagnosis and Treatment in Chengalpattu District

BACKGROUND: With one-third of the world's drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) cases, India is one of the nations with the highest number of patients. Limited treatment options, long duration of treatment, and associated toxicity adversely impact the physical and mental well-being of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) patients. OBJECTIVES: The study describes the challenges and psychosocial barriers faced by MDR-TB patients and their caregivers throughout the diagnosis and treatment process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A mixed-method study was conducted among MDR-TB patients who are currently under treatment in Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu districts. A semistructured pretested questionnaire that had both quantitative and qualitative parts was used. RESULTS: More than half of the patients (55.8%) had type II Diabetes Mellitus. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 showed that 69.2% of the respondents had mild depressive symptoms. The challenges faced by the caregivers were: 19.2% felt an emotional rollercoaster, 32.8% had a financial burden, 25% had stress. CONCLUSION: In light of the identified challenges among the patients and caregivers of MDR-TB such as emotional and financial strain, stigma along with smoking and alcohol abuse, it is essential to address the above issues through multifaceted and integrated approach.