Trend Analysis and Treatment Outcomes of Tuberculosis Infection in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria (2017–2021)

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the leading infectious diseases worldwide and continues to pose a major public health challenge, particularly in developing countries. This study assessed the trend of tuberculosis infection and treatment outcomes in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA), Rivers State, Nigeria, over a five-year period (2017–2021). A retrospective descriptive study design was adopted using secondary data obtained from Directly Observed Treatment Short-course (DOTS) facilities within the study area. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, independent sample t-test, trend analysis, and linear regression analysis were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed a progressive decline in TB cases from 185 cases in 2017 to 132 cases in 2021, indicating a downward trend in TB occurrence. Males accounted for a greater proportion of TB cases (58.5%) compared to females (41.5%). The independent sample t-test showed a statistically significant difference between male and female TB/HIV co-infected patients (p < 0.05). The treatment success rate was 67.4%, which remains below the World Health Organization recommended target. Chi-square analysis revealed significant variation in TB cases across the years studied, while regression analysis confirmed a strong negative trend in TB occurrence over time. The study concludes that although TB incidence declined during the study period, considerable challenges remain regarding treatment adherence and treatment success. Strengthening surveillance systems, improving treatment adherence strategies, and enhancing integrated TB/HIV services are recommended to improve tuberculosis control within the study area.