Prevalence and Factors Associated with Tuberculosis Disease among Community PEOPLE of Budhanilkantha Municipality Bagmati Province Nepal

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, remains a significant public health issue in Nepal, primarily affecting the lungs and spreading via airborne droplets. Overcrowding, poor socioeconomic conditions, and immunocompromised states such as HIV/AIDS and diabetes increase susceptibility to TB infection. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of TB among community members in Budanilkantha Municipality. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, selecting wards 3, 10, and 12 through random sampling. Data were gathered from 203 respondents using a structured questionnaire via the KOBO Toolbox, following informed consent and municipal approval. Analysis was conducted with IBM SPSS, utilizing descriptive statistics and relevant tests. The mean age of respondents was 41.2 years, with an even gender distribution. TB prevalence was 3.4%, highest among those aged 39–59, but no significant association with sociodemographic factors was found. While 82.8% had heard of TB, only 54.2% understood its transmission. Most respondents (79.3%) had never smoked, though 9.9% were current smokers. Regarding TB testing, 35.5% reported access to multiple facilities, but 23.6% noted limited availability. For healthcare access, 31.5% traveled on foot, and 59.6% required over 30 minutes to reach a DOTS center. Despite high general awareness, knowledge gaps about transmission and limited access to testing persist. Transportation barriers and smoking habits among a minority may hinder TB control. Targeted health education and improved service accessibility are recommended to strengthen TB prevention and care.