April 2026, Volume 4, Issue 4

Author

M. Keerthana, M. Dharani, B. Renuka and P Sudha Kumari

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis remains a major public health challenge in India, accounting for two-fifths of incident global cases. Despite being preventable, comorbidities can negatively impact treatment outcomes. This study assesses the impact of co-morbidities on treatment outcomes among tuberculosis patients in a tertiary care setting. Methods: A community-based longitudinal study was conducted among 272 drug-sensitive tuberculosis patients registered at directly observed treatment short-course centres under urban health centres of the Kurnool tuberculosis unit between January 2021 and October 2022. Data on socio-demographic factors, personal habits, co-morbidities, and treatment outcomes were collected and analysed using chi-square tests and logistic regression. Results: Among the 272 patients, 28.7% had comorbidities-most commonly diabetes (56.4%), hypertension (30.8%), and human immunodeficiency virus (12.8%). The overall favourable treatment outcome was 85.3%. Significant associations were found between unfavourable outcomes and male sex, smoking, alcohol use, and absence of family screening. Comorbidities, especially diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cardiovascular disease, were associated with significantly lower cure rates. Conclusion: Co-morbidities and behavioural risk factors significantly affect treatment outcomes in tuberculosis patients. Strengthening integrated care for tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases, along with family contact screening and behavioural counselling, is crucial for improving outcomes and achieving national tuberculosis elimination goals.