Knowledge and attitudes towards TB among healthcare workers in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

SETTING: Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at an increased risk of TB worldwide. Individual knowledge and attitudes may influence HCW behaviour, and subsequently, TB risk. Indonesia has the second highest case-load globally.OBJECTIVE: To measure TB knowledge and attitudes among a subsection of HCWs in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, and to explore factors associated with knowledge.DESIGN: A cross-sectional study using an online survey targeting all HCW staff was conducted among HCWs from four pre-selected healthcare facilities in Yogyakarta. Descriptive analysis and a multivariable linear regression were undertaken.RESULTS: Of 792 HCWs, 290 (37%) completed the survey; 64% (n = 185) were medical staff, 33% (n = 95) reported previously being tested for active TB and 8% (n = 24) for latent TB. The mean knowledge score was 7.2/11 (SD 1.5): this was higher among medical staff and those with university education (average score increase: 0.53, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.90; and 0.38, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.74, respectively). Participants agreed that free access to TB screening (93%) and treatment (93%) should be available, and 57% of medical and 77% of non-medical staff would take preventive therapy if eligible.CONCLUSION: Participants had practical understanding of TB; however, gaps were identified in knowledge about TB disease progression and prevention. Prevention programmes were viewed positively. We suggest further TB education and engagement programmes for HCWs.