Interventions for promoting adherence to tuberculosis management

Up to half the people with tuberculosis do not complete their treatment. Strategies to improve adherence to diagnostic and treatment regimens are therefore important.

To assess the effects of various interventions aimed at promoting adherence to anti-tuberculosis treatment and completion of TB diagnostic protocols.

We searched the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group trials register, Medline, Embase, Lilacs and reference lists of articles. We contacted experts in the field.

Randomised and quasi-randomised trials of interventions to promote adherence with curative or preventive chemotherapy and diagnostic protocols for tuberculosis.

Two reviewers independently assessed trial quality and extracted data.

Fourteen trials were included. Reminder cards sent to defaulters, a combination package of a monetary incentive and health education and more supervision of clinic staff increased the number of people completing their tuberculosis treatment. Intensive counselling/education did not help in one study. Direct observation showed better clinical outcomes in one study, and no difference in another. Return to the clinic for reading of a tuberculin skin test was enhanced by monetary incentives, assistance by lay health workers, contracts and telephone prompts but not by health education.

We have found evidence of benefit for a number of specific interventions to improve adherence to anti-tuberculous therapy and completion of diagnostic protocols. These should be implemented by health care providers where appropriate to local circumstances. Future studies in low income countries are a priority and should measure adherence and clinical outcomes.