Perceived causes and stigmatization of tuberculosis among Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a pressing public health issue in many developing countries, with India having the highest number of cases. Lack of awareness and stigmatization of TB remains a significant barrier to addressing this challenge. This paper examines the perceived causes and stigma associated with TB among Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh.

Methods: The study employed a mixed research approach, involving 106 TB patients (both pulmonary and extrapulmonary), both current and retrospective cases, from the Apatani tribe in Ziro valley, Arunachal Pradesh. Participants were selected from all the seven traditionally divided villages using purposive sampling. Semi-structured pre-tested schedules were used to conduct interviews with the patients.

Results: Among participants, 29.24% attributed TB to transmission, 34.91% had alternative explanations, and 35.85% remained uncertain about the causes. Notably, more Pulmonary TB patients reported transmission as the cause. A 10.75% higher likelihood of having misconceptions was observed among males. Literate individuals had 13.27% greater chance of being aware, although, higher education levels did not consistently follow this trend. Perceived stigmatization was evident mainly due to the contagious nature of the disease.

Conclusion: A significant knowledge gap was evident among TB patients, with very few having a clear understanding of the causes of this disease. Gender differences in this regard were minimal. Literate individuals were more likely to understand the causes. Additionally, perceived stigmatization was a notable concern in the study.