[Tuberculosis in a primary care center in a socioeconomically depressed area: variables associated with giving up treatment].

We report the features of 72 patients with tuberculosis of a low socioeconomical level, seen at the primary care center of Perecamps (Barcelona). We identify the factors associated with giving up therapy. We found a predominance of males and of the 40-59 years age group. In 1988 we found an increased rate of young patients (20-39 years) and PDA/HIV+. Twenty-five patients (35%) had had previous episodes of tuberculosis. 19 had had inadequate chemotherapy because of abandonment. The rate of follow-up losses was high (36%). A history of previous PDA/HIV+ were associated with giving up therapy. We indicate the several measures to be applied in our area to improve compliance with chemotherapy in patients with tuberculosis.