Arrack shops as probable hot spots of tuberculosis transmission in urban Puducherry, South India: An exploratory study

Abstract

Background: Alcohol use is common among male tuberculosis (TB) patients of Puducherry, particularly from lower socioeconomic strata who consume liquor from local arrack shops. These shops could be hot spots for the transmission of infection. Hence, this study aimed to explore whether arrack shops could be probable hot spots for the transmission of infection. Materials and Methods: An exploratory, descriptive study was conducted at three primary health-care centers in Puducherry, among male pulmonary TB patients using a pretested semistructured questionnaire. Home visits and visit to the arrack shop were made to assess for factors conducive to the transmission of TB. Results: Most of the patients belonged to lower socioeconomic status and consumed alcohol, mostly from arrack shops. The arrack shops had poor sanitation, were overcrowded, and multiple persons with TB visited the shop. Many had the behavior of spending more than an hour at the arrack shops. Conclusion: There is a possibility of TB transmission of at the arrack shops. Active case finding in the arrack shop may be beneficial.