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Attitudes toward Tuberculosis in Vietnamese Immigrants
Ly Nguyen1, Seiji Yamada, Doris Segal Matsunaga
1Department of Family Practice and Community Health, John Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 95-390 Kuahelani Ave., Millilani, HI 96789, USA.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Journal of Health
|September 25, 2001
Summary
Vietnamese immigrants often believe tuberculosis (TB) is caused by lifestyle factors and highly contagious, impacting social relationships. Addressing these misconceptions through community education is key for effective TB treatment.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern.
- Understanding cultural beliefs is crucial for effective public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices (KABP) of Vietnamese immigrants regarding tuberculosis (TB).
- To identify specific misconceptions about TB transmission, causes, and treatment within this population.
Main Methods:
- Three focus groups were conducted with Vietnamese immigrants in California.
- Discussions were mediated by Vietnamese health workers using open-ended questions.
- Findings were reviewed by a panel of Vietnamese health workers in Hawaii.
Main Results:
- Participants attributed TB to malnutrition, stress, smoking, alcohol, and hard labor.
- Beliefs included extreme contagiousness, spread via utensils/towels, and social isolation consequences.
- Western medicine was preferred over alternative treatments like acupuncture or herbal medicines.
Conclusions:
- Understanding shared Vietnamese attitudes towards TB is vital for patient treatment.
- Community education is necessary to correct common misconceptions about tuberculosis.