Study Finds High Rates of Depression Among TB Patients in Pakistan and Afghanistan
A recent UK-funded study has found that a large proportion of tuberculosis (TB) patients in Pakistan and Afghanistan also suffer from depression, highlighting a major public health concern that may affect treatment outcomes.
According to preliminary findings shared by researchers from Khyber Medical University (KMU) Peshawar and Keele University, around 90% of TB patients in the two countries show signs of depression. This is significantly higher than the global average of about 40% reported among TB patients worldwide.
Impact on Treatment Outcomes
Health experts involved in the study say depression can negatively affect patients’ ability to complete the full course of TB treatment. In many cases, incomplete treatment may lead to drug resistance, resulting in multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), which is more difficult and costly to treat.
MDR-TB requires long-term treatment and careful medical supervision, and experts stress that mental health support can play an important role in improving patient recovery rates and treatment adherence.
Research Program and Findings
The study was conducted under a programme focused on cognitive therapy for depression in TB patients. It aims to test psychological interventions that can improve treatment compliance and reduce the risk of complications.
Out of 1,200 registered patients, researchers reported that a significant number showed mental health challenges, with many experiencing moderate to severe levels of depression.
Experts say that addressing mental health alongside TB treatment could help improve recovery rates and reduce the burden of drug-resistant cases.
Call for Integrated Healthcare Support
Health professionals involved in the research emphasize the need for stronger collaboration between TB treatment programs and mental health services. They suggest that psychological counselling and community-based support could help patients complete their treatment successfully.
Officials also noted that awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives are being used to encourage patients to continue medication and understand that TB is a treatable disease when managed properly.
Public Health Importance
Pakistan is among the countries with a high burden of tuberculosis, and MDR-TB remains a serious concern in the region. Experts believe that integrating mental health care into TB control programs could significantly improve outcomes and reduce transmission risks.
Researchers involved in the study say the findings should help guide future health policies aimed at improving both physical and mental health support for TB patients, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
