Community Perspectives on Tuberculosis (TB) Stigma in North Kota District, Gorontalo City

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health problem and is often associated with stigma toward affected individuals. Such stigma can hinder prevention efforts, early detection, and the success of TB treatment. Aim: This study aimed to assess community perspectives on TB-related stigma and examine the relationship between knowledge level and stigma in North Kota District, Gorontalo City. Method: This study employed a quantitative approach with a descriptive correlational design. A total of 378 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using the Van Rie TB Stigma Scale and a TB knowledge questionnaire, then analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses with the Chi-square test. Result: The findings showed that most respondents had a moderate level of stigma toward TB patients (54.8%), followed by high stigma (39.4%) and low stigma (5.8%). The most dominant stigma indicator was social isolation of TB patients. The majority of respondents had a good level of knowledge about TB (50.3%), followed by moderate (32.5%) and poor knowledge (17.2%). Chi-square analysis revealed a significant relationship between knowledge level and stigma toward TB patients (p<0.001). Respondents with better knowledge tended to have lower levels of stigma. Conclusion Knowledge level plays an important role in shaping community stigma toward TB patients. Therefore, continuous health education is needed to improve public knowledge and reduce stigma toward individuals with TB.