Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Tuberculosis in Indonesia: A Multi-Center Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) is still a persistent health challenge in Indonesia and ranks high on the list of factors causing morbidity and mortality. Improving knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of the general community about TB can help to control the disease.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the KAP about TB in Indonesian society and investigate their sociodemographic determinants.

Participants And Methods: An online cross-sectional survey in 34 provinces in Indonesia was carried out in June 2022. The scores of KAP were classified as low, moderate, and high. Bivariate and multivariate ordinal logistic regression were applied to identify the potential sociodemographic determinants of KAP. Adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI) for each determinant were provided.

Results: Among the 3205 participants, 56.4%, 91%, and 38% had high scores on knowledge, attitude, and perception, respectively. Independent determinants of high knowledge were age (26-35 years; adjusted odds ratio: 1.53 [95% CI: 1.19-1.97]), marital status (married; adjusted odds ratio: 1.18 [95% CI: 1.00-1.39]), and salary (middle income; adjusted odds ratio: 0.76 [95% CI: 0.63-0.93]). Independent factors associated with high scores in attitude and perception were the residence location (village; adjusted odds ratio: 0.76 [95% CI: 0.59-0.98]) and the occupation type (civil servant; adjusted odds ratio: 1.53 [95% CI: 1.09-2.13]), respectively.

Conclusion: Most Indonesians have a high knowledge and good attitude, although they have a moderate perception toward TB. Improving public awareness and health education with the right strategies is critical to reducing the country's TB burden.