Abstract:
B A C K G R O U N D : Recognition of tuberculosis (TB) se-
quelae is growing, and evidence regarding post-TB ex-
periences and care needs may inform care models.
M E T H O D S : The TB Sentinel Research Network of the
International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS
is a global prospective study of people aged �15 with
pulmonary TB. In Eldoret, Kenya, and Mbarara,
Uganda, we conducted in-depth interviews with a pur-
posive sample of individuals treated for TB and multi-
disciplinary health care workers (HCWs) providing TB
care, using a semi-structured guide. We conducted a
reflexive thematic analysis.
R E S U L T S : In interviews with 25 HCWs and 61 individ-
uals treated for TB, participants described trajectories of
TB illness and recovery, and some persistent challenges
after TB treatment across physical, economic, social, and
mental health domains of wellbeing. Experiences were
marked by stigma and isolation. Physical illness exac-
erbated economic vulnerability, which compromised
physical health and presented barriers to care. There was
a lack of care access and need for person-centred post-TB
care. Care needs included addressing potential TB re-
currence, lung health impairment, and psychosocial,
nutritional, and economic challenges.
C O N C L U S I O N : Post-TB experiences are marked by
persistent symptoms, economic vulnerability, stigma, and
psychosocial challenges. These experiences are generally
neglected in the current care paradigm, underscoring
needs for accessible, person-centred post-TB care models.
