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DOT and timely treatment completion among Asian-born immigrant tuberculosis patients
S Y Liu1, J H Li, N W Schluger
1Bureau of Tuberculosis Control, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, NY 10023, USA. sliu@health.nyc.gov
Summary
Early participation in directly observed therapy (DOT) for tuberculosis (TB) can shorten treatment duration. Encouraging TB patients to engage in DOT early is recommended for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, necessitating effective treatment strategies.
- Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) is a cornerstone of TB control programs, ensuring treatment adherence.
- Understanding factors influencing DOT participation is crucial for optimizing TB treatment outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors associated with participation in Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) among tuberculosis patients.
- To quantify the impact of early DOT use on the overall duration of TB treatment.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted on 731 Asian-born patients diagnosed with drug-susceptible tuberculosis in New York City between 1993 and 1997.
- Data on DOT participation, treatment site, and treatment duration were analyzed.
- Statistical analysis, including adjusted odds ratios (aOR), was used to identify significant associations.
Main Results:
- 41% of patients participated in DOT for at least part of their treatment.
- DOT participation was significantly associated with pulmonary TB, more recent diagnosis year, and male sex.
- Patients treated at health department chest clinics were more likely to participate in DOT.
Conclusions:
- Early engagement in DOT is linked to shorter overall TB treatment durations.
- Healthcare providers should strongly encourage TB patients to initiate DOT early in their treatment course.
- Optimizing DOT participation can enhance the effectiveness of tuberculosis control programs.