Health needs according to the perception of people with pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract

The objective of this study was to identify the perceptions of people with tuberculosis regarding their health needs. This qualitative study was performed in the administrative district of Capão Redondo, São Paulo. Data collection was performed in January of 2010 via semi-directed interviews. The interviews were conducted with eleven people undergoing tuberculosis treatment. The participants were at least eighteen years of age and presented no cognition limitations. The empirical material was decoded through discourse analysis. The health needs perceptions are related to the difficulties that emerge in the health-disease process, and acknowledging health needs appeared to be tied to the current illness. The identified needs result from biological alterations, changes to their daily lives, and the limited availability of healthcare services. The quality of assistance offered to people with tuberculosis is a condition of factors related to identifying and meeting their health needs.