Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly infectious bacterial infection that is potentially life-threatening, primarily attacking the lungs, but with the ability to affect other parts of the body. It constitutes a significant global health challenge that impacts people of all ages, races, and ethnicities, especially in low- and middle-income countries such as the Philippines. In view of this, Capstone-Intel Corporation commissioned a survey to investigate the knowledge and perception of TB among Filipinos.
The survey was conducted from August 1 to 10, 2023, with 1205 respondents from various regions of the country.
According to the data, a certain proportion of respondents reported having undergone a TB test. Nationwide, 21% of Filipinos have undergone a TB test previously. While 4% are uncertain, the remaining 74% have not been tested yet.
The testing rates show little variation across different areas. The highest proportion of tested respondents is in the National Capital Region (NCR), with 23% of its population tested, followed by Visayas (23%), Luzon (21%), and Mindanao (20%). The percentages of people who answered “no” in each region are as follows: Mindanao (77%), Luzon (75%), NCR (74%), and Visayas (68%).
This critical issue pertains to the news article on pna.gov.ph that reported the alarming statistics of 70 Filipinos die from TB every day, resulting in a total of 1.6 million deaths in 2021 alone. The report further indicates a concerning increase in the number of TB cases in the country, with an estimated 650 cases per 100,000 Filipinos in 2021.
Based on the limited number of respondents being tested for TB, Capstone-Intel recommends a course of action.
“This highlights the importance of raising awareness about the disease and encouraging people to get tested. To address this issue, one way is to educate the public about the symptoms and risks associated with TB, as well as the importance of early detection and treatment. This can be done through expanded public health campaigns and information dissemination in schools, workplaces, and other community settings,” Capstone-Intel said.
“Additionally, expanded incentives such as free or subsidized testing, as well as access to quality healthcare services, can encourage people to get tested,” it added.
The research agency acknowledges PhilHealth for its efforts in reducing the incidence of TB cases through the provision of a benefit package that covers the cost of TB treatment.
As part of the study by Capstone-Intel, respondents were also asked about their knowledge of different symptoms associated with TB. The most recognized symptom of TB is a persistent cough lasting for more than two weeks, which was identified by 76% of Filipinos nationwide. Additionally, 41% of respondents were aware that fatigue or weakness can be an indicator of TB.
Chest pain was recognized as a symptom of TB by 27% of all respondents across the country. A smaller percentage of participants identified night sweats (10%) and headaches or dizziness (6%) as potential signs of TB. Geographically, the highest level of awareness regarding a persistent cough was noted in the NCR at 83%, followed by Visayas (77%), Luzon (75%), and Mindanao (74%).
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