Assessment of knowledge, attitude, practice (KAP) regarding directly observed therapy (DOT) in tuberculosis among ASHA workers from tribal subpopulation zone of Rajasthan

INTRODUCTION: A high level of community awareness and positive perception towards tuberculosis and its management is crucial for the successful outcome of any control measure. In India the Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) plays a key role in providing awareness and counselling on healthcare issues and management, particularly in remote areas. The tribal population is vulnerable to such infectious diseases due to resource limitations and remote locations. We assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding directly observed therapy (DOT) among ASHA workers in the tribal belt of the Sirohi district of Rajasthan state. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among ASHA workers of Sirohi district from January 2021 to June 2021. A predesigned and structured questionnaire was used to gather information on knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding the management of tuberculosis and DOT. RESULTS: A total of 95 ASHAs participated in the study with a mean age of 35.82 years. Good knowledge (Mean score = 6.2947 ± 1.08052) was observed regarding tuberculosis and DOT. 81% (n = 74) have good knowledge regarding DOT whereas most have a poor attitude and only 47% have adequate practice. A 55% of ASHAs did not adhere even a single TB patient in the last three years. CONCLUSION: In our study, knowledge gaps were identified which may result in substandard patient care. The structured refresher training towards DOT and also training to work in tribal areas will further improve the KAP of ASHAs. It might be needed to provide a module or curriculum regarding awareness among ASHAs for strengthening follow-up system for tuberculosis patients among the tribal population.