Differences in the adherence to tuberculosis treatment in relation to sex in the health district of Freguesia do Ó/ Brasilândia - São Paulo

Abstract

The reasons for epidemiological differences and for adherence to tuberculosis treatment in men and women are unknown. This study aims to determine differences in adherence to tuberculosis treatment in relation to sex; to identify facilitating and hindering aspects for adherence to tuberculosis treatment in relation to sex; to analyze the beliefs that are considered important for adherence to tuberculosis treatment. We used the theoretical framework of Rosenstock's Health Belief Model and Bardin's Content Analysis technique. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 men and women undergoing supervised tuberculosis treatment in the Health District of Freguesia do Ó / Brasilândia, in the city of São Paulo. The results showed that the profile of those who failed to adhere to tuberculosis treatment in relation to sex was: woman - single and divorced, with non-proved paid activity, and level of schooling ranging between the first years of elementary school and high school; man - married, with proved paid activity, and level of schooling ranging between the last years of elementary school and high school. The facilitating aspects found for adherence are the good service provided by health professionals and the patient's perception of his/her health improvement. The beliefs for treatment adherence both in the male and female sex were: high quality of the health service and good treatment (in relation to medicines).