Understanding Quality of Life of Patient with Tuberculosis: Findings from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Abstract

All around the world, tuberculosis (TB) is still a serious public health issue. Finding
out the quality of life (QoL) of tuberculosis patients in the Andaman and Nicobar
Islands is the main goal of this paper. This cross-sectional study was conducted
from July 2021 to December 2022 in seven tuberculosis units. The quality of life
(QoL) was assessed using the EQ-5D-5L scale. We used descriptive statistics, logistic
regression, and the chi-square test. Pulmonary TB was more common among males.
More than half belonged to middle socioeconomic status. Pulmonary TB was higher
among males at 70%, whereas extra pulmonary TB was higher among females at
60%. Multivariate regression shows that the age group 46-55 (OR=0.1; 95% CI 0.0-
0.5; p<0.01) was less predictive of higher QoL compared to patients aged 18-35 years.
Patients with depression had a lower probability of having a higher quality of life
(OR=0.1; 95% CI 0.0-0.2; p<0.01) when compared to non-smokers and those who
had not experienced depression. This study provides valuable insights into the
intricate interplay between alcohol use, demographic factors, and the QoL among
TB patients.