Mixed Methods Study on the Use of Isoniazid Preventive Treatment in Medical Students of a Private University in Lima

Abstract

Background: medical students with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) are at risk of active TB if they do not complete isoniazid preventive treatment (IPT).
Objective: to determine the proportion of medical students with latent TB infection who comply with a full course of IPT and the factors that influence this compliance.
Methods: sequential mixed methods study. An online survey was sent to second to seventh year medical students from a private university in Lima. In-depth interviews were conducted among those with positive PPD who agreed to participate.
Results: one hundred forty-seven participants answered the survey, 86/147 (58.5%) were women, the median age was 22 years (interquartile range: 21-23), 37/147 (25.2%) reported a positive PPD, 21/33 (64%) reported an IPT prescription, 13/33 (39%) reported having started it and 8/33 (24%) completed the IPT. The factors that facilitated IPT initiation were having received the indication to initiate it, having previous knowledge about LTBI and/or IPT, and a recommendation from a doctor. The main barriers were difficulties in navigating the procedures to get IPT. Participants reported that the use of reminders contributed to adherence. Conclusions: the initiation and adherence to IPT among medical students with LTBI are suboptimal.