[Perceptions and practices related with tuberculosis and treatment compliance in Chiapas, Mexico].

OBJECTIVE

To identify health perceptions and practices and non-adherence to therapy among tuberculosis patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Qualitative research work consisting of 11 group interviews with 62 tuberculosis patients during 1997-1998 in the Central, Highlands, and Border Regions of Chiapas, Mexico.

RESULTS

Perceived causes of tuberculosis included contagion via food utensils, excess work, malnutrition, and cold, as well as other causes unrelated to person-to-person contagion. The resulting incapability to work resulted in an economic crisis for both the patients and their family members. As a result of the social stigma imposed by the disease, patients perceived a negative impact on their personal life, family, work, and community.

CONCLUSIONS

Lack of knowledge regarding tuberculosis is an important factor in the selection of and adherence to different care alternatives. Inadequate care provided by health services, including an unsatisfactory physician-patient relationship, resulted in diagnostic delay and non-adherence to therapy. Education programs to promote basic knowledge regarding tuberculosis and its treatment are necessary in this region.