Knowledge and attitudes about tuberculosis of black hospitalised TB patients.

A sample of 201 adult black hospital inpatients with tuberculosis (TB) were interviewed to ascertain their knowledge and attitudes about the disease. The major signs and symptoms were cough by 89%, loss of appetite by 67%, weight loss by 63% and night sweats by 62%. Although 87% thought that TB affected many people, it was rarely discussed; they considered their families were not at risk, it was easy to prevent, there was complete recovery after treatment and it was an acceptable disease to family and friends. It was concluded that denial of personal involvement and a positive attitude towards cure and prevention may be factors that allow tuberculous patients to cope with their disease.