Tuberculosis related stigma attached to the adherence of Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS) in West Bengal, India.

Background: Stigma is a major barrier to the successful completion of the Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS). People put on DOTS have to face repeated exposure to stigma as per the requirement of the treatment. Thus stigma can shape the extent of access and adherence to treatment.

Tuberculosis related stigma and its effect on the delay for sputum examination under the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program in India.

Background: One major barrier to achieve goal of tuberculosis (TB) control program globally, is the stigma attached to the disease. Perceived stigma can delay sputum test in time. Delay will lead to spread of infection in the community.