Exploring Misconceptions and Socio-Cultural Beliefs about Tuberculosis: An Exploratory Study in Tehsil Mianwali, Pakistan

Abstract

The study is an exploratory research that examines the cultural interpretations and misconceptions about Tuberculosis (TB) in Tehsil Mianwali in Pakistan. Although there are improvements in the medical knowledge, most people in this rural area still believe that TB is supernatural like divine punishment or black magic and this considerably hinders the early diagnosis and treatment. Qualitative data were obtained through purposive sampling of 60 respondents using semi structured interviews and narrative analysis done on the data. The results indicate that stigma of TB is hugely embedded in the community which results in social isolation, hiding the illness, and biomedical care avoidance. To add to this, women, especially, are confronted with the complexities of gender norms that limit their movements and their decision-making capabilities, further deteriorating their health conditions. There are also social economic factors like poverty and inaccessibility to healthcare facilities that reduce treatment opportunities. The traditional and spiritual healers as well as poor health literacy levels in the community also lead to the continued spread of misinformation. Although, the research showed these difficulties, it also discovered that social and family support contributes greatly to the adherence of treatment. Research highlights the importance of culturally competent health literacy education, stigma relieving initiatives, and the reinforcement of the rural healthcare infrastructure in order to address better TB prevention and patient outcomes in Mianwali and other such environments.