Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Focus: Evaluating Public Concerns, Treatment Perceptions, and Awareness in King Sabatha Dalindyebo Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Cross-sectional survey assessed treatment perceptions and barriers to LTBI care in a rural population, highlighting awareness gaps.
Key Points
Awareness of latent tuberculosis infection among adults varied significantly by age, with only 15.8% awareness in those aged 50–59.
Concern about the progression of latent tuberculosis to active disease was reported by 75.1% of participants, indicating a significant public health issue.
Cross-sectional community-based survey utilized a structured questionnaire to assess public knowledge and attitudes toward LTBI.
Education initiatives are essential to bridge the gap between awareness and treatment uptake, particularly for older age groups.