Punjabi University reveals social and psychological realities faced by TB patients in Punjab
Babushahi Bureau
Patiala (Punjab), November 30, 2025 — A new Ph.D. study at Punjabi University has uncovered critical social, psychological and familial challenges experienced by tuberculosis (TB) patients across Punjab, highlighting gender-based differences and revealing unique patterns of family support during treatment. The research was conducted by Dr. Harpreet Singh under the supervision of Prof. Hardeep Kaur from the Department of Social Work.
According to Prof. Kaur, the study examined 300 TB patients selected from six high-burden districts — Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Sangrur and Patiala. The findings indicate significant gender differences in health concerns and family-related issues. The research also revealed notable disparities between patients living in joint and nuclear families.
A striking observation from the fieldwork showed that married women diagnosed with TB were more frequently accompanied for treatment by their natal families rather than their in-laws, shedding light on the social dynamics surrounding illness and marital responsibilities.
Prof. Kaur added that the study documented considerable gender differences in coping strategies, with the highest number observed in Sangrur (19 strategies), followed by Patiala and Amritsar (7 each), Ludhiana (2), and only one each in Gurdaspur and Jalandhar.
Dr. Harpreet Singh explained that the research aimed to assess patients’ knowledge about TB, evaluate the range of problems they face, and analyse the coping mechanisms they adopt. The study found that most patients were well-informed about the disease, identifying pulmonary TB as the most prevalent form and cough as the primary mode of transmission. X-ray and sputum tests emerged as the main diagnostic tools, and widespread acceptance of the Government of India’s DOTS therapy was noted as a positive trend.
Both Prof. Kaur and Dr. Singh emphasised that the insights gained from this study are vital for policymakers, healthcare administrators, social workers and NGOs involved in TB prevention and patient welfare in the state.
Punjabi University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jagdeep Singh applauded the research, stating that the university remains committed to meaningful academic work aimed at improving social understanding. He said the findings play a crucial role in addressing fear, stigma and misconceptions associated with TB, paving the way for more effective interventions.