Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Health-Related Quality of Life of Tuberculosis Patients in Dhaka, Bangladesh: A Mixed Methods Approach

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has substantially impacted various aspects of life, especially exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals with tuberculosis (TB). This research aimed to evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of TB patients in Bangladesh during the first wave of the pandemic. A mixed-methods approach was utilized, combining both quantitative and qualitative data for a comprehensive analysis. The quantitative component employed two validated tools to assess HRQoL in TB patients receiving treatment at various health centers in Dhaka, Bangladesh, with 500 participants. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with HRQoL deterioration. The findings revealed that 47% of participants reported pain, and 35% experienced anxiety. Associations were observed between lower HRQoL and factors such as larger household sizes and greater distances from residences to health centers. In the qualitative component, in-depth interviews highlighted significant challenges, including nutrition and financial instability, worsened during the pandemic. Participants noted that the Bangladeshi Government's efforts were insufficient in meeting their needs. The study emphasizes the importance of targeted relief initiatives that include nutritional and psychological support, especially for those with restricted mobility, limited access to healthcare, and increasing financial distress. This research calls for a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on TB patients, addressing both immediate health-related issues and broader socio-economic concerns. Keywords: Tuberculosis (TB), Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL), COVID-19, Logistic Regression, Bangladesh, Socio-Economic Impact, Healthcare Access, Nutritional Support, Mental Health, Pandemic, TB Care Barriers, Financial Hardship, Public Health Interventions.