Tuberculosis health education. Needs in homeless shelters.

Tuberculosis has reemerged as an important public health concern, particularly with the rise in multi-drug-resistant strains. The homeless are at increased risk for infection, for active disease, and for incomplete treatment. Public health authorities have recommended that tuberculosis health education materials be developed specifically for residents and staff of homeless shelters. In this study, a diverse sample of 20 adult homeless-shelter residents responded to open-ended questions regarding 1) their knowledge of tuberculosis and tuberculosis screening and treatment, 2) their perceptions of access to health care services related to tuberculosis, and 3) their views of health education regarding tuberculosis. The majority of the subjects had limited knowledge of tuberculosis and of screening and treatment for the disease. Many had misconceptions about the disease, particularly regarding its transmission. An analysis of the subjects' responses within the framework of the Health Belief Model indicated that basic tuberculosis health education programs for residents of homeless shelters are needed. The study findings indicated that a small-group educational format utilizing written materials and video aids might be most effective.