Socioeconomic Determinants of Tuberculosis Awareness among Women in Pakistan: Evidence from PDHS 2017–18

Abstract

Background:
Pakistan is one of the world's leading TB burden countries (1) with tuberculosis (TB) still a significant public health issue. Understanding the spread of TB is critical for its prevention and early detection. Environmental controls (such as cooking fuels) in the household setting may affect awareness; but evidence is scarce.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-18 (N = 10,494) (2). Socio-demographic features were presented using descriptive statistics. Pearson chi-square test was used to investigate cooking fuel and TB knowledge. The crude and adjusted odds ratios (COR, AOR) were calculated using logistic regression.

Results:

At bivariate level, cooking fuel was significantly associated with TB awareness (p < 0.001). Using dirty fuels was less likely to be aware (COR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.39-0.45). It was not significant in the final model (AOR = 0.96, p = 0.501). Age, wealth index and literacy were the significant factors.

Conclusion:

Tuberculosis awareness is largely function of socioeconomic features. Education and reducing disparities should be the focus of public health approaches.