The key factors influencing tuberculosis treatment outcomes: A literature review

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a pressing global health challenge, with treatment adherence playing a pivotal role in determining patient outcomes and public health impact. Despite the availability of highly effective treatment regimens, adherence to these lengthy protocols, often spanning six months or more, remains suboptimal. Non-compliance with TB medication can lead to treatment failure, prolonged infectiousness, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains, exacerbating the public health burden. This review critically examined recent literature to identify the multifaceted factors influencing TB treatment adherence, including patient knowledge and attitude, mental health, medical care, socio-economic, social support and healthcare-related determinants. It also evaluates current strategies designed to enhance adherence, ranging from patient-centered approaches, such as Directly Observed Therapy (DOT), to the integration of digital health technologies and community-based interventions. The findings underscored the importance of a tailored approach to TB treatment, considering the diverse barriers faced by patients in different settings. By optimizing adherence, healthcare providers can significantly improve treatment outcomes, reduce transmission rates, and contribute to global TB control efforts. The review findings will also inform future interventions and policies that support sustainable and effective TB management strategies.