Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis remains a major public health problem in India. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices with respect to knowledge of TB among the selected urban slums‟ population between the age group of 18 – 65 years in Mysore city, Karnataka, South India. Design: Community based cross-sectional survey in 10 randomly selected slums and 500 systematically selected individuals. Study was carried out from January to February 2015 using the WHO (KAP) survey tool. Results: Overall knowledge about TB was low (percent mean 45.7), with no difference between gender. Knowledge about TB increased with increasing educational level. Majority of the respondents obtained knowledge regarding TB from their family, friends and teachers (percent mean 77.6), whereas print media (percent mean 10.6) was least. Respondents gaining information through health professionals had a significantly higher knowledge on treatment of TB (percent mean 30.7, p=0.011).Digital media had a positive impact on the attitude and practices regarding TB. Conclusion: Though most persons were aware about TB, the awareness regarding diagnosis and treatment was poor. This may affect treatment seeking behaviour among persons dwelling in slums. Frequent and continuous Information Education and Communication along with Social Behaviour Change Communication activities with the help of civil societies help to improve awareness regarding all aspects of TB.