Prevalence of Tuberculosis Among HIV Sero-Positive Patients Attending HIV Clinic at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Bushenyi District

ABSTRACT. Back ground. This study on the prevalence of TB among HIV sero-positive was carried at the HIV CLINIC of Kampala International University Teaching Hospital (KIUTH), Ishaka Bushenyi district. Aims (objectives). 1. To find out the prevalence of tuberculosis among HIV sero-positive patients aged 15 years and above attending HIV clinic at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital. 2. To assess knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions about TB/HIV co-infection among HIV sero-positive patients aged 15 years and above attending HIV clinic at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital. Methodology A retrospective cross-sectional study design was used to conduct this proposed study. The study targeted all patients attending KIUTH HIV/TB clinic. A standard structured and semi-structured questionnaire was designed and pre-tested for validity and reliability at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital HIV/Tuberculosis clinic before being used for data collection. Data collection started by recruitment of qualified research assistants, appropriate training and orientation of the interviewers before the survey for example when reading the questions. Quantitative methods of data analysis was used in which data was presented inform of bar graphs and tables before being discussed. Results The prevalence of TB among HIV sero positive patients attending HIV clinic at KIUTH stands at8.06 per 100 participants. The study found that generally, people are aware about the modes of transmission of TB but there is still need for more awareness. Many patients are still not certain whether TB is curable in HIV patients. As seen from the above study, most of the people are not yet aware whether HIV goes hand in hand with tuberculosis. Conclusion The prevalence of TB in HIV sero-positive attending HIV clinic at KIUTH is high. Generally TB is affecting patients of all ages and most patients are still not aware if TB in HIV is curable. Most patients have a perception that all TB patients have HIV. Recommendation. Health workers in HIV clinic of KIUTH should teach patients the modes of transmission and prevention of TB.KIUTH also need to provide easy access to TB screening services to patients. There is need of financial support by the government to the unemployed patients and low income earners in order to curve down TB infections.