title: Determinants of poor adherence to anti-tuberculosis treatment in mumbai, India.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In this study, we investigated the determinants of poor adherence with anti-tuberculosis therapy among pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) patients in Mumbai, India, receiving Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS) therapy.
  
  
  METHODS
  A cross-sectional study on 538 patients receiving DOTS I and II regimen was conducted. Patients were interviewed and clinical and laboratory data were collected. Eighty seven patients were considered non-adherent. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine risk factors associated with non-adherence.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Factors associated with non-adherence were found to be different among the newly-diagnosed patients and all the other residual groups. Smoking during treatment and travel-related cost factors were significantly associated with non-adherence in the newly-diagnosed patients, while alcohol consumption and short-age of drugs were significant in the residual groups.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  An approach, targeting easier access to drugs, an ensured drug supply, effective solutions for travel-related concerns and modification of smoking and alcohol related behaviors are essential for treatment adherence.
authors.affiliation: Georgia Division of Public Health, USA.
authors.forename: Suparna
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bagchi
authors.forename: Guirish
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Ambe
authors.forename: Nalini
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Sathiakumar