TB PATIENTS TRUST ENHANCES TUBERCULOSIS CONTROL IN MALAWI'S PRISONS

In August 2018, Paradiso conducted research at Zomba Maximum Prison, with its findings shared at a meeting in March 2019 at Sunbird Lilongwe Hotel. The study aimed to help control tuberculosis (TB) in Malawi’s prisons, focusing on Zomba Prison. The study, titled “Implementing a Successful Tuberculosis (TB) Control Programme in Prisons in Malawi: A Case of Zomba Prison,” looked at the TB and HIV services available to prisoners in Malawi. Researchers used both interviews and questionnaires to gather information. They spoke with staff and inmates to understand the TB programs in the prison, identify gaps, and learn about people’s perspectives on TB. They interviewed a total of 451 inmates using a questionnaire. Additionally, they talked to some inmates and staff using open-ended checklists. Qualitative data was collected from 4 TB patients, 2 inmates in supervisory roles, 6 staff members, and the officer in charge. The findings showed that 67% of inmates were screened for TB when they entered the prison, with more males screened than females. Sentenced prisoners were 21% more likely to be screened than those on remand. In the past year, 55% of inmates were screened for TB, and 13% of them were diagnosed with TB. More males were screened in the past year, with the highest number of prisoners screened being aged 55-64 years. Those with secondary school education reported the highest number of screenings. Additionally, inmates in prison for over 40 months and smokers reported higher rates of TB screening. The research also examined HIV screening and linkage to antiretroviral therapy (ART), as well as TB knowledge and awareness among inmates. Overall, the study shed light on the TB situation in Zomba Prison and provided valuable insights to improve TB control programs in Malawi’s prisons.

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