Factors Influencing Tuberculosis Prevention Behaviors Among Household Contacts of New Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients at Nakhon Sawan Province

Abstract

This cross-sectional research aimed to analyze factors influencing tuberculosis (TB) prevention behaviors among household contacts of new pulmonary TB patients in Nakhon Sawan Province. Data was collected from 184 participants using a validated and reliable questionnaire. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlation analysis and stepwise multiple regression analysis. The results showed that 70.1% were female, with an average age of 50 years (SD=14.1). Most participants (77.7%) demonstrated high levels of TB prevention behavior. The predictive model revealed six significant factors: cues to action for TB prevention (beta=0.489, p<0.001), knowledge of tuberculosis (beta=0.147, p=0.026), room-sharing with the index case prior to treatment (beta=-0.127, p=0.018), marital status (widowed/ divorced/separated) (beta=-0.139, p=0.013), no history of chest X-ray screening within the past 6 months (beta=-0.144, p=0.007), and alcohol consumption (beta=-0.167, p=0.002). These factors collectively accounted for 52.5% of the variance in TB prevention behaviors (Adjusted R²=0.509, p<0.001). In conclusion, health interventions should focus on enhancing TB knowledge and creating effective cues to action. Promoting regular Chest X-ray screening, encouraging separate sleeping quarters, and reducing risk behaviors such as alcohol consumption are essential to fostering appropriate TB prevention behaviors among household contacts.