Quality of Life of Tuberculosis Patients in Coastal Areas of Pangkep Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem in Indonesia and significantly affects patients’ physical, psychological, social, and economic well-being. Coastal communities often face additional challenges related to access to health services, socioeconomic limitations, and social stigma, which may further reduce the quality of life (QoL) of TB patients.

Objective: This study aimed to describe the quality of life–related conditions of tuberculosis patients living in coastal areas of Pangkep Regency, Indonesia.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 57 tuberculosis patients residing in coastal areas of Pangkep Regency. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering sociodemographic characteristics, community discrimination, economic impact, and family anxiety levels. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results: Of the 57 respondents, 29 (50.8%) were female and 28 (49.1%) were male. Most respondents had junior high school education (38.6%) and worked as housewives (31.6%) or farmers (28.1%). Community discrimination was commonly experienced, with the majority reporting frequent discrimination. Although most respondents (86.0%) reported no direct economic impact, a proportion experienced financial difficulties. High and very high levels of family anxiety were reported by more than half of respondents’ families, indicating psychological and social burdens associated with tuberculosis.

Conclusion: Tuberculosis patients in coastal areas of Pangkep Regency experience multidimensional challenges that may negatively affect their quality of life. Social discrimination, economic vulnerability, and family anxiety remain important issues that should be addressed through comprehensive and community-based TB management programs.