Korean J Rehabil Nurs.  2023 Dec;26(2):87-96. 10.7587/kjrehn.2023.87.

Factors Influencing the Medication Adherence in Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis in the COVID-19 Pandemic

• Lim B
• Kim MY

• KMID: 2550745
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7587/kjrehn.2023.87

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to investigate medication adherence in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and the factors influencing it in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among patients with pulmonary TB visiting one of 7 hospitals in 5 cities. Data were collected using self-reported questionnaires between November 2021 and February 2022. Statistical analyses, including independent t–test, x 2 test, Fisher’s exact test, Pearson’s correlation, and hierarchical logistic regression analysis, were performed using IBM SPSS/WIN 23.0.
Results
Among 111 patients, 73 (65.8%) demonstrated adherence to medication. Significant factors influencing medication adherence were the duration of TB medication (less than 2 months, OR=4.79, 95% CI=1.39) and stigma I (community perspectives toward TB) - low (OR=4.53, 95% CI=1.36~15.06).
Conclusion
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the level of medication adherence among patients with pulmonary TB was higher than before. To enhance medication adherence during an infectious disease epidemic, active management of the initial two-month intensive treatment period is crucial. Additionally, addressing psychosocial issues such as stigma is essential for improving overall adherence.

Keyword

COVID-19; Medication adherence; Social stigma; Tuberculosis