Stigmatization and discrimination of female tuberculosis patients in Kyrgyzstan – a phenomenological study

and Conclusion. In contrast to previous research, this study did not find diagnostic delay nor non-adherence to treatment because of stigmatization and discrimination. However, experiences within the healthcare facilities impacted the perceived quality of care. Stigmatization within the family, mostly by in-laws, was anchored in the patriarchal and conservative attitudes of Kyrgyz society. Overall, key findings of this study were widespread lack of knowledge about the disease and its transmission as a reason for and mental health issues because of stigmatization and discrimination. The findings imply the need for intervention strategies and policies focusing on education about TB, integration of psychosocial support into treatment and improvements in quality of care. Altogether, this could contribute to the reduction of TB-related stigmatization and discrimination which would reduce the individual burden of TB.