ABSTRACT:
Aim: The study aims to investigate the high incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in Malegaon, Maharashtra, India, and identify the etiological factors contributing to its prevalence. Objectives: The objectives are to evaluate TB patient treatment reports, identify at-risk groups, examine etiological variables, investigate risk factors and TB drug awareness, analyse pulmonary tuberculosis incidence, and provide a study of cost-effective TB treatment. Methods: Patient proformas, treatment charts, laboratory data, patient history records, and verbal communication were employed in this multi-centre observational study, for 10 months and carried out in multiple healthcare facilities. Patients aged 18 and up with positive or dubious sputum tests who were willing to begin anti-TB treatment and had a recent history of TB treatment were eligible. Exclusion criteria included contraindications to therapy, serious disorders, pregnant women, children under the age of six, convicts, and patients with chronic diseases. Results: The findings revealed considerable tuberculosis incidences among 20-40-year-olds, with a greater prevalence in men, low-income groups, and places with inadequate housing and lower literacy rates. Limited healthcare access, inadequate public health campaigns, high HIV co-infection rates, and malnutrition were also significant concerns. Conclusion: Addressing tuberculosis in Malegaon involves socioeconomic initiatives, environmental improvements, healthcare system development, biological and nutritional support, strong legislation, research, and public health campaigns, as well as cooperation from government and non- government agencies.