ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL AND BEHAVIOR CHANGE (SBC) IN ERADICATING AND PREVENTING TUBERCULOSIS IN CROSS RIVER STATE, NGERIA
Keywords:
Tuberculosis, Public Health, Awareness, Community engagement, Community leadersAbstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health concern in many developing countries, including Nigeria. Cross River State, situated in the southeastern part of Nigeria, faces unique challenges in the eradication and prevention of TB. This research paper explores the impact of Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) strategies in addressing TB in Cross River State. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of SBCC interventions in increasing awareness, promoting early detection, and improving treatment adherence among the population. Social and behavior change (SBC) communication strategies and interventions have been used to successfully promote positive health behaviors and health outcomes. In this research, we outline a high-level generalized duty for the development, deployment, and evaluation of SBC communication strategies in high TB burden settings and how it could be employed to address TB treatment delays. Improved design and delivery of SBC interventions can assist countries in meeting the Sustainable Development and Global End TB goals of reduced TB incidence, increased TB cure rates, reduced TB deaths, prevention of catastrophic out-of-pocket costs for TB care, and integration of health systems for patient-centered care.