Obstacles to the implementation of directly observed treatment in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

SETTING: Five tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and treatment centrcs in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. OBJECTIVE: To identify obstacles to the direct observation of anti-tuberculosis treatment (DOT) so that it can be adapted to local contexts. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study conducted between August and September 2002 among new and retreatment TB cases in the initial phase of treatment. Information and suggestions were collected on obstacles encountered in DOT. RESULTS: Among 74 patients interviewed, the main difficulties were the lack of assiduity among health personnel, the daily travel, the long distances, the high transportation costs and the high number of tablets. The main suggestions were a reduction in the number of tablets taken at a time, decentralisation of places where tablets are to be taken and weekly provision of drugs. CONCLUSION: Obstacles to DOT should be addressed to optimise the effectiveness of anti-tuberculosis treatment.