Journal of Public Health
Volume 28, Issue 3, 2006, Pages 253-260

Is screening for tuberculosis acceptable to immigrants? A qualitative study (Article) (Open Access)

Brewin P. , Jones A. , Kelly M. , McDonald M. , Beasley E. , Sturdy P. , Bothamley G. , Griffiths C.*
  • a Department of Respiratory Medicine, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London E9 6SR, United Kingdom
  • b Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, Health Protection Agency, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5EQ, United Kingdom
  • c Centre for Human Sciences and Medical Ethics, University of London, London E1 2AT, United Kingdom
  • d Lower Clapton Health Centre, Hackney, London E5 OPD, United Kingdom
  • e Lower Clapton Health Centre, Hackney, London E5 OPD, United Kingdom
  • f Centre for Health Sciences, 2 Newark Street, London E1 2AT, United Kingdom
  • g Department of Respiratory Medicine, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London E9 6SR, United Kingdom
  • h Centre for Health Sciences, 2 Newark Street, London E1 2AT, United Kingdom

Abstract

Background: Screening of immigrants has been a widespread response to the global resurgence of tuberculosis but has been criticized as discriminatory and stigmatising. Acceptability is an essential but neglected ethical prerequisite of screening programmes, particularly those targeting vulnerable groups such as refugees. No data exist concerning acceptability of tuberculosis screening. We therefore examined the responses of immigrants to screening for tuberculosis in a range of settings. Methods: We carried out a qualitative interview study of a maximum diversity sample of 53 immigrants offered screening for tuberculosis in east London. We recruited people screened in three settings: a social service centre for asylum seekers, a hospital clinic for new entrants and primary care. We confirmed validity of our findings at a focus group of asylum seekers. Results: The opportunity to be screened for tuberculosis was valued highly by recipients. Moreover, many saw being screened as a socially responsible activity. Of the minority raising concerns, few mentioned the possibility of discrimination. Acceptability was high irrespective of setting, with respondents expressing preference for their chosen place of screening. Conclusion: Screening for tuberculosis was highly acceptable to recipients in these settings. Screening should be offered in a range of settings. © The Author 2006, Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Faculty of Public Health. All rights reserved.

Author Keywords

Screening tuberculosis Public health

Index Keywords

immigrant refugee human validation process medical ethics Mycobacterium tuberculosis priority journal screening test Social Work qualitative research interview male female tuberculosis stigma Article major clinical study adult infection risk social behavior
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-33748762205&doi=10.1093%2fpubmed%2ffdl031&partnerID=40&md5=040d0ac29009eafb3201d90d89888b14
DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdl031
ISSN: 17413842
Cited by: 33
Original Language: English