Integrating narrative and bibliometric approaches to examine factors and impacts of tuberculosis treatment non-compliance

Faculty of Nursing Universitas Padjadjaran Research Highlights Complex Factors Driving Tuberculosis Treatment Non-Compliance

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a leading global public health threat, with treatment non-compliance posing serious risks, including the development of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB), prolonged treatment durations, and persistent community transmission.

A recent study led by Agus Santosa, Nursing Doctoral Program, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, in collaboration with researchers from Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto, employed an integrated narrative and bibliometric approach to comprehensively examine the factors and impacts of TB treatment non-compliance.

The research systematically reviewed global literature from major databases, applying thematic synthesis to categorize contributing factors and using bibliometric visualization (VOSviewer) to reveal interconnections. The findings identified multiple interrelated drivers, including insufficient TB knowledge, stigma, adverse drug effects, economic hardship, demographic variables, psychological barriers, and systemic healthcare limitations.

These interwoven challenges highlight that improving treatment adherence requires multi-dimensional, context-specific interventions combining patient education, stigma reduction, social and economic support, and healthcare system strengthening.

The study contributes directly to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by targeting infectious disease control, and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by emphasizing equitable access to treatment and support services.

📄 Read the full study here: https://doi.org/10.5826/mrm.2025.1016