Gender-Related Barriers and Delays in Accessing Tuberculosis Diagnostic and Treatment Services: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies

Box 1

Financial issues.

“My husband told me to go to my parent’s home. He refused to give me money for the cost of

treatment. My neighbor did not help me that much either.” (female) [28]

“He gave me medicines for every two weeks. Earlier on, he asked me to come every day but I told him, I

am a poor man; I do not have my own transport. Everyday I have to spend RM 12 (about US$3) for

transportation, how can I bear this financial burden, I told the doctor.” (male) [34]

“Men have money to spend on their own, but women have to get it from the husband or from the

family” (female) [18]

“He will feel ashamed of himself. He will think ‘who will keep me in the job? What is my use if I cannot

earn?’” (male) [24]