Health-seeking behavior and associated factors among ptb patients in jaramogi oginga odinga teaching and referral hospital (jootrh), Kenya, 2022

The study aimed to assess the health-seeking behavior (HSB) of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients and its associated factors, which significantly impact disease management in countries with a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB), such as Kenya. Problem Statement: The PTB burden in Kenya has increased significantly in recent years due to poor health-seeking behavior among PTB patients. Despite the implementation of free PTB testing and treatment, inadequate HSB contributes to high morbidity and mortality rates and increases the spread of PTB. Objectives: The primary objective was to assess the health-seeking behavior and associated factors among PTB patients at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kenya. Methodology: The research was conducted in the TB clinic at JOOTRH, utilizing a cross-sectional descriptive research design. Participants were sampled through purposive and convenience sampling methods. Data collection was performed using semi-structured questionnaires, with analysis conducted through descriptive statistics and Microsoft Excel. Benefits of the Study: The findings will guide key interventions to improve health-seeking behavior, informing policy formulation and health education initiatives. Results: A total of 58 respondents participated in the study. The majority were aged 26-35 years (62.1%) and male (65.5%). Financial constraints were identified as a common barrier to seeking TB treatment (79.3%). While knowledge about TB was generally high, stigmatization remained prevalent. Health-seeking behavior was significantly influenced by factors such as distance to health facilities, financial constraints, and community perceptions of TB. Conclusion: This study highlights that TB health-seeking behavior and access to care are greatly hindered by unemployment and low income. Misconceptions about TB's incurability and transmission contribute to stigma and delayed care. Recommendations include enhancing health education, improving healthcare access, and addressing financial barriers through community outreach to destigmatize TB and promote early healthcare-seeking behavior, particularly among vulnerable populations, to reduce transmission rates and improve outcomes.