# Awareness, Attitudes, and Behavioral Practices of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan Regarding Tuberculosis

## TL;DR

This study finds low tuberculosis awareness in Kazakhstan, especially among internal migrants, and highlights the need for targeted education and stigma reduction.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into TB awareness and stigma in Kazakhstan, emphasizing the need for tailored public health interventions for vulnerable groups.

## Key findings

- Awareness of tuberculosis is low in Kazakhstan, particularly among internal migrants.
- Healthcare workers have significant gaps in knowledge about TB diagnostics.
- Stigma and misconceptions about TB persist across all population groups.

## Abstract

What are the main findings?
Awareness of tuberculosis remains low among the general population in Kazakhstan, particularly among internal migrants.People living with HIV and individuals who use drugs demonstrate higher knowledge of TB symptoms and testing; however, stigma and misconceptions persist across all groups.

Awareness of tuberculosis remains low among the general population in Kazakhstan, particularly among internal migrants.

People living with HIV and individuals who use drugs demonstrate higher knowledge of TB symptoms and testing; however, stigma and misconceptions persist across all groups.

What is the implication of the main finding?
The findings indicate a critical need for targeted tuberculosis awareness campaigns tailored to vulnerable populations, especially internal migrants. Strengthening training programs for healthcare workers and implementing inclusive, culturally sensitive communication strategies may improve public understanding of tuberculosis, reduce stigma, and enhance early detection and treatment outcomes. These measures are essential for improving TB prevention and control in Kazakhstan.

The findings indicate a critical need for targeted tuberculosis awareness campaigns tailored to vulnerable populations, especially internal migrants. Strengthening training programs for healthcare workers and implementing inclusive, culturally sensitive communication strategies may improve public understanding of tuberculosis, reduce stigma, and enhance early detection and treatment outcomes. These measures are essential for improving TB prevention and control in Kazakhstan.

Background: This study aims to examine the level of awareness, attitudes (including stigma and discrimination), and behaviors related to tuberculosis among the population of the Republic of Kazakhstan to identify priorities for raising awareness and reducing stigma. Methods: The study interviewed 2400 people from six regions of Kazakhstan using stratified random sampling based on gender and age. Respondents were chosen from cities and villages, including RK citizens over 18 who could answer questions. Additionally, 400 people with HIV, 200 drug users, 200 internal migrants, and 500 health workers were interviewed. Recruitment was done through profile organizations and the snowball method, with all participants giving informed consent. Results: The study showed different levels of knowledge about tuberculosis (TB) in Kazakhstan. Radiography was the most commonly known detection method (71–91%). Awareness of sputum testing was highest among drug users (84%) and HIV patients (77%), but lower among internal migrants (39%). Internal migrants had the most uncertainty about TB tests (17%). Stigmatizing views of TB patients existed, with 28–38% believing most people reject them. Among healthcare workers, only 38. 8% correctly identified the G-Xpert test for TB and rifampicin resistance, and over one-third misunderstood the Mantoux test’s purpose. Conclusions: The findings show a need for focused educational efforts to boost TB awareness and lessen stigma, especially among internal migrants and the general public. Vulnerable groups, like PLHIV and PWUD, have higher awareness but still encounter major barriers. Improving healthcare workers’ knowledge about TB diagnostics is also crucial. Specific communication strategies and policies are needed to improve TB detection, reduce social stigma, and improve healthcare access for at-risk groups in Kazakhstan.