Background of the Study
Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, and its transmission is closely linked to socio-economic and environmental factors. In Sokoto State, rapidly expanding urban slums are characterized by overcrowding, poor ventilation, and inadequate access to healthcare—all factors that facilitate the transmission of TB. Urban slums often lack proper housing, sanitation, and nutrition, which compromise the immune system and increase vulnerability to infections (Aliyu, 2023; Mustapha, 2024). In addition, the stigma associated with TB can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, further exacerbating transmission. These conditions create an environment where TB can spread rapidly among residents, undermining public health efforts to control the disease.
Despite national TB control programs, urban slums in Sokoto continue to experience high rates of TB incidence and transmission. The challenges of providing adequate healthcare in densely populated areas are compounded by the mobility of slum populations and limited infrastructure for disease surveillance and control. This study aims to investigate the impact of urban slum conditions on TB transmission in Sokoto State. By integrating epidemiological data with qualitative insights from affected communities and healthcare providers, the research seeks to identify the key environmental and social determinants that contribute to TB spread in these vulnerable settings.
Statement of the Problem
In Sokoto State, urban slum conditions are a major contributing factor to the persistent high transmission rates of tuberculosis. Overcrowding, poor living conditions, and inadequate healthcare access create a fertile ground for TB outbreaks. Many residents face delays in diagnosis and treatment due to limited awareness and stigma, which further facilitate the spread of the disease. In addition, the lack of proper ventilation and high rates of malnutrition among slum dwellers compromise immunity, rendering the population more susceptible to TB infection. Despite efforts by public health authorities, the challenges posed by the urban slum environment have not been adequately addressed. This study aims to fill the gap by systematically examining how slum conditions influence TB transmission dynamics, providing insights into effective intervention strategies that can mitigate the impact of environmental and social determinants on TB control (Ibrahim, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the prevalence of tuberculosis in urban slum areas of Sokoto State.
2. To identify environmental and social factors within slums that contribute to TB transmission.
3. To propose targeted interventions to reduce TB spread in these settings.
Research Questions
1. How do urban slum conditions influence TB transmission in Sokoto State?
2. What are the key environmental and socio-economic factors associated with TB spread in slum areas?
3. What intervention strategies can effectively reduce TB transmission in urban slums?
Research Hypotheses
1. Overcrowding and poor ventilation in urban slums are significantly associated with increased TB transmission.
2. Socio-economic deprivation and malnutrition contribute to higher TB incidence in slum populations.
3. Implementing targeted healthcare interventions in urban slums will reduce TB transmission rates.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on selected urban slum communities in Sokoto State. Data will be collected through surveys, interviews with residents and healthcare workers, and analysis of TB clinic records. Limitations include challenges in accessing transient populations and potential underreporting of TB cases.
Definitions of Terms
• Tuberculosis (TB): A contagious bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• Urban Slums: Densely populated urban areas characterized by substandard housing and poor living conditions.
• Transmission: The spread of a disease from one individual to another.
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