Increased adolescent knowledge and behavior following a one-time educational intervention about tuberculosis

Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of a tuberculosis (TB) educational intervention (EI) on change in adolescent student knowledge and participation in a TB prevention program. Methods From 2/2013-5/2015, students from 2 high schools in Houston, TX participated. The 25-min EI discussed TB bacteriology, epidemiology, symptoms, and indications for TB testing/treatment. Students completed pre- and post-quizzes. Immediately after the EI, students were invited to participate in voluntary TB risk-factor screening, testing and treatment. At 6 months, focus groups were conducted. Results 895 students attended the EI. 827 students (92%) completed the EI quizzes. Knowledge improved by 12% (pre: 70%; post: 82%, p  Conclusion A brief, one-time, TB EI is an effective method to encourage adolescents to learn about TB and motivate their uptake of TB risk-factor screening, testing and treatment. Similar EIs should accompany TB prevention programs targeting adolescents. Practice implications The study’s procedures could be considered for incorporation into school-based TB prevention programs to improve the identification, testing and treatment of adolescents at risk for TB.