Factors Contributing to Tuberculosis Relapse Among Patients Following Treatment Completion

Abstract Tuberculosis (TB) is a continuing major public health concern, and relapse is the most challenging determinant of treatment success and disease management. This study is descriptive research and determined the predictors of relapse of tuberculosis among patients once they have already undergone treatment. The respondent-population targets included TB DOTS enrollees who are covered exclusively for 2024 who are also facing recurrence of TB. Data were collected from 177 respondents, classified by age, sex, socio-economic status, comorbidities, treatment duration, and locality of residence. Findings suggest the greatest number of respondents lay within the 30-64 age bracket, with a largely male population. The largest percentage was in the lowest income category, highlighting economic vulnerability as a key determinant of TB recurrence. The most common comorbidities were hypertension and diabetes, conditions which are common to affect TB treatment outcomes. The majority of the respondents received the regular six-month TB treatment. The researcher used the adapted and modified questionnaire. Treatment adherence, lifestyle, and social support were rated as being most frequently experienced, followed by awareness of TB recurrence as the highest-rated factor. Statistical analysis also reflected important differences in treatment adherence according to comorbidities and residential area. Lifestyle was significantly affected by age, comorbidities, and residential area. Social support differed significantly with age, while knowledge of TB recurrence differed significantly according to residential areas. These results emphasize the influence of socio-economic and environmental determinants on TB recurrence and identify the potential importance of targeted interventions. This research suggested healthcare policies from the findings of the study to minimize the probability of tuberculosis recurrence. Keywords: Tuberculosis (TB), TB Relapse, Treatment Adherence, Lifestyle, Social Support