Detection Rates and Treatment Initiation Metrics in Community Health Workers' Tuberculosis Screening Initiatives in Dar es Salaam's Informal Housing Zones: An Action Research Study,

This study examines the effectiveness of community health workers in detecting tuberculosis (TB) cases and initiating treatment in informal housing zones of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Community health workers in Dar es Salaam's informal housing zones were surveyed on their TB screening practices, including detection rates and treatment initiation outcomes from January to June . Detection rates varied significantly across different neighborhoods, with a median rate of 75% and a notable proportion of missed cases due to language barriers. Treatment initiation rates were lower, indicating challenges in patient follow-up. Community health workers play a crucial role in TB screening but face significant obstacles such as language and service access issues that hinder effective treatment initiation. Strategies are proposed to enhance communication with patients, address cultural barriers, and improve infrastructure for ongoing care. Specific actions include training programmes, translation support, and community outreach initiatives.