Why Do Some Ugandan Patients Delay Treatment for Drug-Resistant TB?

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is a major health issue worldwide, even with effective medicines available. Starting treatment late for DR-TB can lead to worse health, more resistance to drugs, higher risk of spreading the disease, and poorer treatment results. This study looked into why some DR-TB patients in Uganda start treatment late and what factors might cause these delays. One key finding was that patients who live far from healthcare centers often face longer delays in starting their treatment. This is because traveling long distances can be difficult and time-consuming, making it harder for them to get the care they need promptly. Another important factor is the cost of treatment. DR-TB medicines can be expensive, and not everyone can afford them right away. This financial burden can lead to delays in starting treatment. Interestingly, patients who had previously been treated for TB also faced delays. This could be because they might not realize they have DR-TB, thinking it's just a recurrence of their regular TB. The study also found that patients who didn't know they had DR-TB or didn't understand the importance of early treatment were more likely to delay starting their treatment. This highlights the need for better education and awareness about DR-TB. Understanding these predictors can help healthcare providers in Uganda improve their strategies to reduce treatment delays and improve the health of DR-TB patients.