Addressing stigma, mental well-being, and alcohol use among people with tuberculosis in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Call for an integrated care model
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Date
2025-07-29
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH)
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with stigma, mental health issues, and alcohol use significantly affecting treatment outcomes. Stigma delays TB diagnosis, reduces treatment adherence, and disrupts care continuity. Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, further undermine adherence, whereas alcohol use accelerates TB disease progression and leads to poor treatment outcomes. Current TB care models in SSA lack integrated support for psychosocial and behavioral health needs. This article advocates for a comprehensive care model that integrates mental health screening, counseling, psychosocial support, alcohol use disorder screening, and harm reduction strategies into TB programs. Effective implementation requires collaboration among TB care providers, mental health specialists, and alcohol use counselors supported by research, provider training, and community engagement. By addressing stigma, mental health, and alcohol use, this model can enhance treatment adherence and outcomes, advancing the WHO’s End TB Strategy in SSA.
Description
Keywords
Mental Well-Being, Stigma, Alcohol Use, Tuberculosis, Sub-Saharan Africa
Citation
Izudi, J., Bajunirwe, F., Cattamanchi, A., & West, N. (2025). Addressing stigma, mental well-being, and alcohol use among people with tuberculosis in Sub-Saharan Africa: A call for an integrated care model. The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene, tpmd250048. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.4269/ajtmh.25-0048