Determinants of Unsuccessful TB Treatment Outcomes Among Patients on Directly Observed Treatment Short Course in Jimma Town Health Facilities, Southwest Ethiopia: A Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND: Even though Ethiopia’s Federal Ministry of Health has been implementing several programs aimed at reducing the burden of tuberculosis (TB), It does not demonstrate adequate progress. As a result, identifying the determinants of unsuccessful outcomes of directly observed treatment, short-course (DOTS) is critical. PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the determinants of unsuccessful TB treatment outcomes among patients with DOTS in Jimma town, southwest Ethiopia. PATIENTS AND METHODS: An unmatched case-control study using secondary data was conducted among 118 cases and 472 controls from April 1 to June 1, 2021. Cases were TB cases with unsuccessful treatment courses whereas controls were those of successful treatment. Data were collected using a standardized tool. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 23 software. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify the determinants. RESULTS: We found that the determinants including age > 35 years (AOR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.14–3.2), lack of contact person (AOR= 27, 95% CI: 15.8–46.3), being HIV positive (AOR=7.3, 95% CI: 3.7–14.2)), and being malnourished (AOR=4.5, 95% CI: 1.5–12.9) were significantly associated with unsuccessful tuberculosis treatment outcome. CONCLUSION: In this study, advanced age, being HIV positive, lack of contact person, and being malnourished were determinant factors for unsuccessful TB treatment outcomes. Hence, careful monitoring, screening, and management of risk factors are recommended.