Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) states that treatment outcome is an important indicator to monitor tuberculosis (TB) prevention and control program. This study analyzed TB treatment outcome taking regimen change in continuation phase from EH (Ethambutol- Isoniazid) to RH (Rifampicin-Isoniazid) into account in Ethiopia as a factor.

Objective: to assess tuberculosis treatment success rate and associated factors in Gamo Gofa zone, Ethiopia.

Methods: We did a register based, retrospective crosssectional study among TB patients who received treatment in five health facilities with high tuberculosis case load in Gamo Gofa zone. The study was conducted from October 2013 to May 2014. All eligible patients were studied. Binary and multiple logistic regression analysis were carried out to identify factors associated with successful treatment outcome.

Results: Among 2,019 TB patients registered for treatment, treatment outcome was evaluated for 1,667 (82.6%). Among these, 86.6% were successfully treated. Rural residence [AOR=0.62 (95% CI: 0.46-0.83)], being HIV Positive [AOR= 0.56 (95% CI: 0.39-0.81)], having smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis [AOR=0.59 (0.35- 0.99)] and being on EH based anti-TB continuation phase treatment regimen [AOR= 0.72 (95% CI: 0.54-0.96)] were associated with lesser odds of having treatment success.

Conclusion: Treatment success in this study was very good. The level of treatment success in this study was encouraging at 86.6%. Transitioning continuation phase anti-TB treatment regimen to RH contributed to the improvement of tuberculosis treatment outcome.