A scoping review on socioeconomic factors affecting tuberculosis loss to follow-up in Southeast Asia

INTRODUCTION: Tuberculosis (TB) is a global public health issue. The Southeast Asian region grapples with numerous challenges in TB management, with loss to follow-up (LTFU) emerging as a critical barrier to effective control of the disease. This review synthesised published articles to identify socioeconomic factors contributing to the burden of TB losses for follow-up in Southeast Asia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This scoping review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). A total of 10 studies were identified as eligible from the title and abstract review. The mixed method quality appraisal tool (MMAT) version 2018 was used to assess the quality of the included quantitative studies.

RESULTS: The results showed that poverty, unemployment, low education levels, migrant status, community support, male gender, substance abuse, and regional disparities significantly impact the occurrence of TB LTFU in Southeast Asia.

CONCLUSION: The findings have significant implications for public health in Southeast Asia. Addressing these socioeconomic barriers through community-based strategies, educational initiatives, and policy reforms is vital for improving treatment outcomes and overall public health.