Not yet recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

TB Stigma in the UK: Patients Experiences and Everyday Responses

This study aims to understand the experiences of people in the UK who have tuberculosis (TB), focusing on the stigma they might face. Stigma means feeling judged or treated unfairly because of an illness. Many people have misunderstandings about how TB spreads, its severity, and treatments, which can lead to fear and negative reactions towards those with TB. This research uses interviews to listen directly to patients about how stigma affects their daily lives, their interactions with healthcare, and their overall well-being. By learning from these personal stories, the study hopes to find better ways to reduce stigma, improve how we talk about TB, and make healthcare more supportive for patients, their families, and the NHS.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Sponsor

Bournemouth University

Enrolment target

Start

01 Sep 2026

Estimated completion

01 Mar 2028

TB Tuberculosis Stigma TB Stigma Low Incidence

What is this study about?

This study is all about understanding how people in the UK who have tuberculosis (TB) experience stigma. Stigma happens when people have negative ideas or feelings about an illness, leading to those with the condition feeling judged, isolated, or treated differently. Many people have incorrect ideas about TB, like how it spreads or how serious it is, which can create fear and unfriendly reactions from others. These feelings can make it hard for people with TB to talk openly about their illness, get the support they need, or even feel comfortable going to their doctor. This study wants to change that by shedding light on the issue.

Even though TB stigma is a big problem worldwide, we don't know much about how it affects people living in countries like the UK, where TB is less common. This research aims to fill that gap by talking directly to patients. We want to hear their personal stories about how stigma impacts their daily lives, their relationships, and their journey through healthcare. What does it feel like? How do they cope? How does it change their interactions with doctors or nurses?

By gathering these important insights, the study hopes to make a real difference. The goal is to use what we learn from patients to create better ways to reduce stigma, improve how healthcare professionals communicate about TB, and develop new support services. Ultimately, this research aims to make sure that people with TB feel understood, respected, and get the best possible care from the NHS and their communities.

Key takeaways

The study explores how having TB affects people's feelings and daily lives due to stigma.
It aims to give a voice to people with TB to understand their experiences.
Findings could help improve support, communication, and healthcare for TB patients.
Participation involves a confidential interview about your personal story.
You can withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your medical care.
The focus is on people in low TB incidence rural/coastal areas of South/Southwest England.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for people who have been diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) at some point in the last 10 years. This includes all types of TB, whether it's in the lungs, other parts of the body, or if you've had a latent TB infection (where the bug is in your body but not making you sick yet).

To join, you need to be at least 18 years old and currently living in a rural or coastal part of South or Southwest England. This focus is because the study is specifically looking at areas where TB is less common.

Unfortunately, you cannot take part if you are under 18, if you're unable or unwilling to give your consent to participate, or if you live in an area where TB is more common (like some larger cities) or outside of the specified rural or coastal areas of South/Southwest England.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with any type of TB (active, latent, pulmonary, extrapulmonary) in the last 10 years?
Do you live in a rural or coastal area within South or Southwest England?
Are you able and willing to openly talk about your experiences and give your consent to participate?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will have an in-depth conversation, called an interview, with a researcher. This interview will focus on your personal experiences with TB and any stigma you might have faced. The researcher is also a TB Consultant Nurse, familiar with sensitive conversations.

The interview will be scheduled at a time that works for you. You are in control during the interview; you can pause, choose not to answer certain questions, or even stop participating at any time without needing to give a reason. If you feel upset or distressed during the interview, the research team will pause, check on you, and offer information about support services if needed. We understand that talking about these experiences can be emotional, and your well-being is our priority. Your participation is completely voluntary and will not affect your medical care in any way.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of taking part is that your personal experiences could help improve understanding of TB stigma in the UK, leading to better support and healthcare for others with TB. This research aims to make a positive difference. However, talking about your experiences with TB and stigma might bring up difficult emotions or memories, which could cause some distress. The research team is trained to conduct interviews sensitively and will offer support and resources if you feel upset. Remember, you can stop the interview or withdraw from the study at any time, and this will not affect your medical treatment or care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University Hospitals Dorset
Verified postcode
Bournemouth, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is 'stigma' in relation to TB?

Stigma means feeling judged, shamed, or treated unfairly by others because of having TB. It can come from misunderstandings about the illness.

Will my doctors know if I take part?

The study is kept separate from your usual medical care, and your decision to take part (or not) will not be shared with your clinical team and will not affect your treatment.

What will happen during the interview?

You'll have a talk with a researcher about your experiences with TB and any stigma you've encountered. It's a conversation where you share your story.

How long will the study last for me?

Your involvement in the study will be mainly around the time of your interview. There are no ongoing visits or treatments associated with the study itself.

Is my information kept private?

Yes, everything you share will be kept confidential and your name won't be used in any reports or publications. The study has strict rules to protect your privacy.

How to find out more

David Thomas, MRes, BSc, RN

david.thomas117@nhs.net 0300 019 4570 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.