Determinants of adherence to tuberculosis treatment in Iranian patients: Application of health belief model

Adherence to TB treatment is an important issue for TB control, with key health consequences. Identification of the factors associated with that adherence is also important. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with adherence to tuberculosis treatment, using the health belief model (HBM). Overall 297 TB patients were recruited to the study using the census method. All patients completed a 40-question survey form anonymously. The questionnaire was developed based on the Health Belief Model. Data collection was carried out through interviews and questionnaires, as well as observing medical records and medical cards to be used in medical performance checklists. The participants comprised 159 men and 138 women with an average age of 56.8 years (range 19-72 years). The results showed that the variables of perceived threat, benefits, barriers, and self-efficacy accounted for 42% of the variance in therapeutic adherence. The strongest predictor of adherence was found to be self-efficacy. HBM appears to be a suitable model in predicting therapeutic adherence in TB patients. Our results emphasize the centrality of self-efficacy in treatment adherence, that health educators should consider when developing programs to motivate patients to adhere to treatment.