Awareness, attitude and treatment seeking behaviour regarding tuberculosis in a rural area of Tamil Nadu.

A population based cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the awareness, attitude, and treatment seeking behaviour regarding TB in rural Tamil Nadu. Out of 1985 people interviewed, 56% had heard of TB, but 80% were not aware of the cause and mode of spread of TB. Television was reported to be the main source of information (45%). Only 34% people were aware that treatment for TB was available free of cost. Less than 10% people felt the need to maintain confidentiality, if contracted TB. More than 80% people preferred to visit Government hospital, if developed TB, whereas 54% actually sought treatment from government hospital for cough of more than three weeks.