Evaluation of tuberculosis disease awareness and understanding amongst pharmacy students at the University of Wolverhampton

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis is recognised as the leading cause of death due to infectious disease in the world. Pharmacies and pharmacy workers, together with GPs and other health care professionals, have key roles and responsibilities in facilitating TB management, therefore aiding prompt treatment and reducing incidence. Objectives: This study aims to determine the level of awareness, perceptions and knowledge of TB and its treatment among pharmacy students at various stages in study. One of the main objectives is to identify key sources of gained awareness and identify which of these were the most effective in information delivery. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among pharmacy students at the University of Wolverhampton using a questionnaire. A total of 50 participants, who fully completed the questionnaire, were included in the study. Results: All participants had previously heard about TB, 46.0% of participants indicated that they first heard of TB through their school or college. More than half of respondents (71.4%) highlighted that the most effective source of TB-related learning was through university. Questions based on basic knowledge of TB, such as causative organism, achieved the highest correct answers (98.0%), those based on treatment duration (56.0%) and medications yielded poorer results. Participants‟ perceptions of whether complete recovery can be achieved and whether TB is curable, or a long-term illness, were poor. Conclusion: Results suggest that participants‟ basic knowledge of TB is acceptable, although improvements are advised in understanding of preventative measures that can be taken, recommended standard pharmacological treatments and their durations.