Adwoa Asante-Poku, Michelle Yeboah-Manu, Stephen Osei-Wusu, Prince Asare, Augustine Asare Boadu, Emelia Konadu Danso, Phillip Tetteh, Ishaque Mintah Siam, Kenneth Mawuta Hayibor, Theophilus Afum, Emmanuel Afreh, Edmond Kwaku Ocloo, Isaac Darko Otchere, Nelly Arthur, Yaw Adusi-Poku, Charlotte-Alberta Cato, Abraham Adjei, Jane Afriyie-Mensah, Dorothy Yeboah‐Manu
Background: The global tuberculosis (TB) burden remains high, though several interventions have been instituted to fight the TB epidemic. Community perception and understanding play a critical role in health-seeking behaviors, ultimately influencing the acceptance and effectiveness of control efforts. In observance of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day in 2022 and 2023, we engaged the community and sought their understanding of TB and diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods: Interactive educational sessions were held in the outpatient department, basic schools, nursing college, and the market. A validated questionnaire was administered to consenting adults to evaluate their knowledge and views on TB and DM. Responses from participants were gathered using the KoboToolbox data collection program. Participants also underwent health screening, and those identified with TB and or DM were sent to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) for appropriate management. Results: The survey documented responses from 285 individuals. The majority of the participants (63.5%) were women, aged 36-59 (38.3%), and had only basic school education (50.9%). Among the 179 individuals aware of TB, 48% accurately recognized bacteria or germs as its causative agents. Nonetheless, certain myths persisted, with around 6% attributing the disease to witchcraft or curses and 21% unclear of its genesis. Approximately 85% of individuals were aware of DM, while around 72% ascribed its etiology to dietary factors. Concerning community members' engagement with patients diagnosed with TB, only 52.3% indicated they would have contact with those living with TB, whereas 82.5% expressed willingness to engage with those with diabetes mellitus. Approximately 55% of the participants perceived that both TB and DM are incurable. Conclusion: Our findings reveal critical knowledge gaps and widespread misconceptions about TB and DM. These gaps can be reduced through health education campaigns and community engagement that foster timely health-seeking behaviors, improving disease outcomes.