Abstract:

Aim: There needs to be more information in the literature regarding the effects of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on Tuberculosis (TB) patients. However, the World Health Organization indicates that discontinuing TB treatment could lead to a more severe course of COVID-19. Our study was designed to investigate TB patients receiving treatment under the Tuberculosis Control Dispensary (TCD) in a specific district of Istanbul and to evaluate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on these individuals. Methods: This study includes 51 TB patients treated at the TCD in a district of Istanbul. A 35-question survey was prepared on the sociodemographic information of participants, their disease status, and risks related to COVID-19. This survey was conducted via phone. Ethics committee approval and institutional permissions were obtained for the research. Results: Data was gathered from 96.07% (n=49) of the study’s target population. 55.1% of participants were male, and 95.9% were Turkish citizens. The average age of participants was 40.5±17.0 (Min: 3, Max: 86, Median: 40) years. During the treatment process, 88.9% preferred video consultations, 8.2% visited the TCD, and 2% approached the Family Health Center. 6.1% of participants contracted COVID-19. 93.9% of patients perceive themselves at a higher risk for COVID-19 due to their TB condition. While 93.9% have consistently continued their treatments, 91.8% have visited the TCD for routine checks. Regarding preventive measures against COVID-19, 95.9% adhere to isolation rules, 79.6% maintain a balanced diet, 85.7% ensure regular sleep, and 32.7% have taken vitamin or drug supplements. 98.0% have used protective equipment like masks and face shields. Conclusion: Restrictions brought by the pandemic can challenge patients’ access to treatment. However, this study indicates that a significant number of participants have persistently continued with their treatments, and their associations with the TCD remain unaffected. Nevertheless, many patients feel they are at an increased risk. It’s also observed that several patients do not entirely comply with protective measures. Therefore, it’s essential to amplify protective education for directly observed therapy patients and implement measures to ensure uninterrupted access to treatment.

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