[17] STUDY ON EVALUATING THE EFFICACY OF COMMUNITYBASED ADVOCACY, COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL MOBILIZATION (ACSM) ACTIVITIES FOR TUBERCULOSIS PREVENTION IN MAHARASHTRA
How to Cite the Article: Anita Sudam Kale & Pandurang Shivram Patil (2026). Study on Evaluating the Efficacy of Community-Based Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilization (ACSM) Activities for Tuberculosis Prevention in Maharashtra. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research & Reviews, 5(7),226-238. https://doi.org/10.56815/ijmrr.v5i7.2026.226-238
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of India's leading public health challenges despite the implementation of the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilization (ACSM) has emerged as an important strategy for increasing awareness, reducing stigma, promoting early diagnosis, and improving treatment adherence. The present study evaluates the efficacy of community-based ACSM activities for TB prevention in Maharashtra. A descriptive crosssectional research design was adopted using structured questionnaires administered to community members and stakeholders. The study assessed knowledge regarding tuberculosis, awareness of ACSM interventions, communication effectiveness, behavioural changes, stakeholder participation, programme reach, and barriers affecting TB prevention. Findings indicate that ACSM activities have significantly improved community awareness regarding TB symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive practices. However, misconceptions regarding ACSM objectives, persistent stigma, socioeconomic barriers, and inadequate healthcare accessibility continue to hinder programme effectiveness. Community participation, culturally appropriate communication, and multi-sectoral collaboration were identified as critical determinants of successful implementation. The study recommends strengthening community engagement, expanding digital and interpersonal communication strategies, improving frontline health worker training, and establishing robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to achieve India's TB elimination goals.
