Abstract
Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) significantly affects college students, impacting their quality of life across physical, mental, social, and academic domains. This qualitative study utilized the photovoice methodology to explore the lived experiences of five college students diagnosed with and treated for PTB. Participants captured photographs over one week to represent their experiences, followed by a virtual focus group discussion analyzed using the SHOWED technique and reflective thematic analysis. Four key themes emerged: (1) Dark Tunnel, reflecting initial diagnosis and treatment challenges; (2) Tightrope, illustrating the balance between health and academics; (3) Man on Island, depicting social isolation and stigma; and (4) Metamorphosis, highlighting personal growth. These findings reveal the complex challenges faced by students with PTB and highlight the importance of providing a comprehensive support program addressing the medical, psychosocial, and academic needs of students. This study contributes to understanding TB’s impact on young adults and informs patient-centered care in educational settings.
