What is the purpose of directly observed therapy (DOT) in TB control?

• A. To ensure adherence and improve cure rates
• B. To shorten treatment duration
• C. To monitor liver enzymes
• D. To reduce drug costs

Answer: (A)

Directly observed therapy focuses on ensuring patients take their TB medications exactly as prescribed, which is crucial because TB treatment is long and involves multiple drugs. When a trained observer watches each dose, it helps prevent missed doses, supports patients through side effects, and reinforces completing the full course. This strong adherence is what drives higher cure rates and helps cut transmission by ensuring the infection is fully treated. DOT doesn’t inherently shorten the treatment duration, which is set by guidelines and drug susceptibility, nor is its primary job to monitor liver enzymes. It also doesn’t directly reduce drug costs, though better adherence can prevent costly relapses and resistance down the line.