Tuberculosis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Tuberculosis, including details on symptoms, causes, treatment, pulmonary, mycobacterium.

Predictors of screening results for depressive symptoms among homeless adults in Los Angeles with latent tuberculosis.

Berg J, Nyamathi A, Christiani A, Morisky D, Leake B

School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles, CA.

The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of screening results for depressive symptoms in a Los Angeles homeless population with latent tuberculosis (TB). Four hundred and fifteen homeless adults participating in a nurse case managed intervention were included in this analysis. Logistic regression results indicated that those who reported a physical health limitation, multiple sex partners, daily drug use, alcohol dependence, or not having completed high school, were more likely to screen positive. Social support from non-drug users was protective. Given the importance of adherence to TB treatment regimens, the high prevalence of a positive screening for depressive symptoms in the homeless and the potential for depression to reduce adherence rates, routine screening and treatment for depression in high risk homeless adults being treated for TB may be warranted.

Published 16 May 2005 in Res Nurs Health, 28(3): 220-9.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2004-2008 Tuberculosis Research Today. All Rights Reserved.