Abstract

DE LA CRUZ, Ana Margarita. Tuberculosis and affectivity. Rev Cubana Med Trop [online]. 2004, vol.56, n.3, pp. 214-218. ISSN 1561-3054.

It was proposed to investigate the perceptions, attitudes, prejudices and behaviors associated with tuberculosis, as well as the differences due to gender because it presents a strong social stigma with cultural shades according to society. The most reported behavior is trying to hide it. Group interviews were made and a survey was done to 147 patients in Havana. The persistance of the stigma was proved and the associated conducts were follow-up of the treatment far away from the residence place and active hiding (occultation). The main reason declared mostly among women was to avoid social rejection. No affectations were found neither in the search of medical attention nor in the follow-up of treatment. Appreciations associated with the disease were feeling shame for suffering from tuberculosis, be treated with fear, that to lead a normal life they have to hide the disease, and that more than the third part of them would advise to do so. It was recommended to design a strategy of social communication.

Keywords : Tuberculosis; stigma; attitudes; prejudices; conduct; communicable diseases; perception; social rejection; survey; interview; gender.

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