E3 Journal of Scientific Research

E3 Journal of Scientific Research Vol. 4 (2) pp. 018-027, August 2016; © E3 Journals; ISSN 2276-9919
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18685/EJSR(4)2_EJSR-16-015

A survey of Tuberculosis in the city of Maroua, Far North Region of Cameroon

Abstract

Tuberculosis is a public health challenge in cities. Its prevalence jeopardizes socio-economic and urban development, especially in sub-Saharan Africa where it is a major cause of illness and deaths mostly among the already vulnerable urban poor. The goal of this paper was to make a survey of active human tuberculosis in Maroua and suggest recommendations in order to tackle the disease. Detailed reconnaissance surveys, clinical sources of identified cases, interviews with relevant actors, cartographic analysis via GPS surveys and satellite-based GIS google earth image and the administration of questionnaires to sample the perception of the inhabitants revealed a high prevalence of TB in the town (7.33%). More cases were recorded among males (68.8%) than females (31.2%). TB prevalence was highest (65.9%) amongst the adult age group (15-45). The Missinguiléo neighbourhood recorded the greatest frequency (>21%) of TB cases (50%). There is a poor perception (27.9%) on the awareness of TB symptoms including HIV/AIDS by the inhabitants. The study suggests preventive measures that could be adopted to tackle the disease, improve the health of the inhabitants, increase investment in health care, life expectancy and literacy, reduce poverty and foster sustainable socio-economic and urban development which is one of the Cameroon΄s perspective since 2004 when it adopted Law No. 2004/3 of 21st April 2004 governing town planning, urban development and construction throughout the national territory.

Keywords: Tuberculosis, urbanization, urban poor, prevalence, Maroua, Cameroon