Tuberculosis (TB) claims more lives worldwide than any other infectious disease. In 1997, TB was one of the leading causes of death from infectious diseases in the world with 2.9 million reported deaths.While reflecting the changing trends in TB rates found in the rest of the United States, TB rates are high in California, particularly in Los Angeles County. California ranks number one among states nationwide with the highest annual number of reported TB cases. Non- adherence to medical recommendations remains as one of the most serious problem in the treatment of tuberculosis in the United States. It is estinated that fewer than 50 percent of persons initially prescribed treatment for TB fail to complete their medical regimen. Data collected on 794 adolescents (64% Hispanic, 25% Asian)identified several factors highly related to medication-taking behavior and completion of therapy. Patients who had high levels of self-efficacy fo medication taking, high levels of self esteem, positive social support and self reported mastery were significantly more likely to have higher levels of medication taking (p < .001). Furthermore, patients reporting high levels of nurse/patient interaction were significantly more likely to complete their 6-month medical treatment program. These findings provide suportive evidence of the significant impact of social and structural factors within the clinic enviornment that can significantly effect the delivery of health care services.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1.Identify five factors significantly related to medication-taking behavior; 2) Define the role of nurse/patient interaction and its positive effects on compliance; and 3) List clinic factors predictive of completion of care.
Keywords: Adherence, Ethnic Minorities
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.