Catastrophic Costs for TB-Affected Households Examined in New Study

Strategic Insights -

A cross-sectional study conducted by researchers at the Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences aimed to address the knowledge gap regarding catastrophic and out-of-pocket expenses incurred by TB patients in the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program in Lucknow district, Uttar Pradesh, India. The study found that 18% of patients had catastrophic expenses, with a median of INR 28,670 and a total median out-of-pocket expenditure of INR 10,150. The research identified several determinants of catastrophic cost, including recurrent TB episodes, place of first consultation, and socioeconomic class.

Key Takeaways:

  • The End TB Strategy seeks to eliminate catastrophic costs for TB-affected households.
  • 18% of patients had catastrophic expenses, with a median of INR 28,670 and a total median out-of-pocket expenditure of INR 10,150.
  • TB patients with recurrent TB, first consultation at a private facility, and belonging to a lower socioeconomic class were more likely to incur catastrophic expenses.
  • The study identified recurrent TB episodes, place of first consultation, and socioeconomic class as significant predictors of catastrophic cost.
  • Strengthening early case detection and enrollment of TB patients under the National TB Elimination Program in vulnerable populations can cut down on catastrophic and out-of-pocket expenditures.
  • The study highlights the need for tailored information, education, and communication (IEC) to address determinants of catastrophic cost.

Statistics:

  • 18% of patients had catastrophic expenses.
  • Median catastrophic expense: INR 28,670.
  • Total median out-of-pocket expenditure: INR 10,150.
  • 371 drug-sensitive TB patients were interviewed.
  • 15-59 years: 42.2% of patients incurred catastrophic expenses.
  • Female: 60.2% of patients incurred catastrophic expenses.
  • Non-Hindu: 57.1% of patients incurred catastrophic expenses.
  • Rural inhabitants: 63.2% of patients incurred catastrophic expenses.
  • Educational levels below high school: 65.3% of patients incurred catastrophic expenses.

Sources:

  • Singh, M. K., et al. Determinants of Catastrophic Cost and Out-of-Pocket Expenditure Incurred by Tuberculosis Patients Under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program in Lucknow District. Indian Journal of Public Health (2025).
  • NewsRx. New Findings from Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences in the Area of Tuberculosis Reported (Determinants of Catastrophic Cost and Out-of-Pocket Expenditure Incurred by Tuberculosis Patients Under the National Tuberculosis ...). TB & Outbreaks Week. October 21, 2025; p 2731.