Background: Tuberculosis is a chronic transmissible infection requiring long-term treatment. The treatment regimens have been shown to be highly effective, but poor adherence to medication remains a significant barrier to its global control.
Objectives: To study the profile of TB patients, identify the reasons for non-compliance with DOTS treatment among tuberculosis patients, and find solutions for improvement.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Karachi, Sindh. A total of 191 patients were included in this study, enrolled during the period from January 2016 to December 2017. A predesigned proforma was used to collect details of each patient. Patients who defaulted on treatment were followed up both telephonically and in person.
Results: Out of the total 145 patients, 31 (18.1%) did not adhere to treatment. Non-compliance was more common among elderly patients (33.8%). Side effects from medication and lack of awareness were the most commonly reported reasons (31.9%).
Conclusions: Non-compliance was primarily due to side effects of medication and lack of awareness. Therefore, educating patients about various aspects of tuberculosis and implementing measures to reduce side effects is of utmost importance.