Factors Related to Preventive Behaviors against Tuberculosis Infection among Household Contacts of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients, Udon Thani Province

Abstract

This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to investigate factors associated with tuberculosis (TB) prevention behaviors among household contacts of TB patients in Udon Thani Province. The study was conducted between July 2022 and June 2023, involving a population of 6,544 individuals. A sample size of 320 participants was determined using a multiple logistic regression and selected through multi-stage sampling. The research framework was based on the PRECEDE Model and the Health Belief Model. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression. The results revealed that age was a significant factor: household contacts aged 41 years or older were 2.34 times more likely to exhibit TB prevention behaviors compared with those younger than 41 years (AOR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.19-4.56, p=0.01). Regarding relationship to the patient, those who were parents or relatives demonstrated better preventive behaviors compared with those who were spouses or children (AOR=2.45, 95% CI: 1.22-4.89, p=0.01). In addition, knowledge about TB was strongly associated with prevention behaviors; individuals with high levels of knowledge were 4.82 times more likely to engage in preventive behaviors than those with moderate or low knowledge (AOR=4.82, 95% CI: 2.15-10.81, p<0.00). These findings highlight the importance of planning for TB prevention among household contacts of TB patients. The study emphasizes promoting appropriate preventive behaviors to reduce the risk of infection, improving household environments and protective measures to limit transmission from TB patients, and enhancing knowledge and awareness among household contacts. This information is crucial to support self-protection behaviors and strengthen TB control efforts within households.