Perceptions of Adolescents and Health Workers Towards Adolescents’ TB Diagnosis in Central Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Qualitative Study

Abstract

Prompt diagnosis of TB among adolescents may reduce transmission and improve individual outcomes. However, TB diagnosis in adolescents is challenging. This study sought to understand challenges to adolescent TB diagnosis. We conducted qualitative focus group discussions (FGDs) to explore adolescents’ and health workers’ perspectives on challenges to TB diagnosis among adolescents seeking care at four secondary health care facilities in Uganda. Eight FGDs were conducted: four with 32 adolescents consulting for medical care and four with 34 health workers involved in TB care.