Comparison of Health-Related Quality of Life Between Tuberculosis Patients Who Completed DOTS Treatment and Those Who Did Not Complete DOTS Treatment in Selected STDCs, to Develop an Information Booklet

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge in India, with treatment adherence playing a vital role in patient recovery and overall well-being. The Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS) strategy is designed to ensure treatment completion; however, many patients fail to complete therapy, resulting in adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to compare the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of TB patients who completed DOTS treatment with those who did not. A descriptive comparative research design was adopted in selected STDCs of Hyderabad, Telangana. The study included 300 TB patients, comprising 150 DOTS completers and 150 DOTS non-completers. Data were collected using the SF-36 Health Survey, which assesses physical functioning, role limitations, emotional well-being, vitality, social functioning, pain, mental health, and general health perception. The findings revealed that DOTS completers had significantly better HRQoL across all domains than non-completers. Good physical functioning was observed in 60% of completers compared to 33.33% of non-completers, while poor physical functioning was higher among non-completers (40%) than completers (13.33%). DOTS completers also reported fewer role limitations, better emotional health, higher vitality, improved social functioning, less pain, and more positive perceptions of general health. Statistically significant differences were found between the two groups across all HRQoL domains (p < 0.05). No significant association was observed between HRQoL and selected socio-demographic variables. The study concludes that completion of DOTS treatment is strongly associated with improved quality of life among TB patients. Strengthening adherence-support programs and patient-centered care strategies may enhance both treatment outcomes and overall well-being.