Mapping cases of tuberculosis distribution and treatment outcomes using geographical information system - the case of Birim Central municipality, Eastern region - Ghana
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Date
OCTOBER 2018
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Abstract
Analyzing the spatiotemporal distribution of tuberculosis (TB) is a very important
way to understand its epidemiology thereby helping to identify geographic
regions at higher risk and to enable proper control and resource allocation. This
study was undertaken to ascertain the spatiotemporal distribution of TB cases and
treatment outcomes in the Birim Central Municipality (BCM) for the period 2012
-2016 and to recommend appropriate preventive measures. In this retrospective
study, the locations of the total of 268 TB cases identified from 2012-2016 were
geocoded on the BCM digital maps. Spatial visualization using choropleth maps,
network analysis, and service area analysis of ArcGIS10.2 was used to identify
the geographic concentration of cases and the various treatment outcomes as well
as proximity of patient community to health facility. A questionnaire was also
used to collect primary data from TB patients diagnosed in year 2017. This data
was analyzed using SPSS version 21. Five main communities were identified as
hot spots of TB in the municipality with variations in other communities. It was
found that other non-spatial factors such as socioeconomic factors and
stigmatization highly influence treatment outcome. Reducing stigmatization,
regular sensitization of health staff who are not directly involved in tuberculosis
care, and using a formerly cured TB patient as a peer educator were some of the
best ways identified to help improve positive treatment outcomes in the
municipality.
Description
A thesis submitted to the Computer Science Department, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree in Health Informatics (Msc)
Keywords
Tuberculosis distribution, Treatment outcomes, Spatiotemporal distribution