Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global public health problem and one of the leading causes of mortality, particularly in developing countries including Iraq. Limited knowledge about TB may negatively influence health-seeking behavior and contribute to continued disease transmission. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary school teachers regarding tuberculosis in the center of Basra city. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among primary school teachers selected to represent all teachers working in the city center of Basra. A total of 400 teachers were recruited from 20 primary schools using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected between March and April 2016 through group interviews using a semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20. Awareness of TB was universal among participants (100%). The main sources of information were television and radio media (53%) and family members (30.8%). More than half of the teachers (51.2%) correctly identified bacteria as the cause of TB, while 40.8% believed pollution was responsible. Most participants recognized the common symptoms of TB (79%) and knew that the disease is transmissible (92%), although only 55.9% identified the correct route of transmission. Nearly all participants understood that TB is preventable (97.5%) and curable (97%). Positive healthcare-seeking behavior was observed, with 95% reporting they would seek medical advice if symptomatic. The study demonstrated generally good awareness and positive attitudes toward TB among primary school teachers in Basra.

Index Terms: Tuberculosis, Knowledge, Attitude, Practices, Primary School Teachers