Factors associated with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in Guinea Bissau: January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2019

Abstract

Purpose: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis continues to cause a public health crisis and remains a threat to health security. Drug resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs remains a major public health problem that compromises the successes in the fight against tuberculosis. Drug resistance appears when antibiotics are misused in patients with severe tuberculosis sensitivity. In this study, we aimed to determine the factors associated with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in Guinea Bissau. Methods & Materials: An unpaired case-control study was conducted from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2019. Variables used were grouped into socio-demographic characteristics, clinical and biological profile. A logistic regression analysis was calculated and the ORs of association with MDR-TB were estimated. Results: Failure of previous treatment [aOR = 14.93 95% CI (5.22-42.64) p= 0.0001], knowledge of the Directly observed treatment, short-course [aOR = 5.23 95% CI (2.14-12.80) p= 0.0003], and temporary interruption of treatment [aOR = 5.26 95% CI (1.88-14.75) p= 0.0016] were found to be associated with the development of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Observance of medication times [aOR = 0.18 95% CI (0.06-0.57) p= 0.0033] appeared to be protected factors against multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Conclusion: Despite significant progresses in the fight against tuberculosis, a set of articulated actions as well as strict monitoring of social protection and support measures for patients are essential to prevent the development of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.