Impact of Sociodemographic, Environmental and Lifestyle factors on Tuberculosis Patients: A Case Study from Patiala (Punjab)

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern in low- and middle-income countries, including India, where social, lifestyle and environmental conditions strongly influence disease transmission and clinical presentation. The present study aimed to assess the clinical symptom profile and sociodemographic characteristics of TB patients in Patiala, Punjab, with particular emphasis on age, lifestyle habits and selected environmental factors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 100 TB patients attending outpatient departments of three hospitals in Patiala. Data on sociodemographic variables, lifestyle factors and clinical symptoms were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Out of the 100 participants, 44% were older than 45 years, 58% resided in urban areas and 54% were female. Chest pain (p = 0.020), shortness of breath (p = 0.015) and night sweats (p = 0.003) were significantly more prevalent in older patients. Chest pain showed a significant association with smoking (p = 0.03) and alcohol consumption (p = 0.003). Living in crowded conditions was significantly associated with cough (p = 0.013), highlighting the role of environmental exposure in early respiratory manifestations. The findings suggest that the severity and pattern of TB symptoms are influenced by age, lifestyle habits and environmental conditions such as crowding. Incorporating environmental and sociodemographic risk assessment into TB control strategies may facilitate early diagnosis and improve patient-centred management.