Patients who habitually drank alcohol were considered alcoholics, and patients who habitually smoked and were currently smoking were considered smokers for the purpose of the analysis. In the RNTCP, a new smear-positive TB patient is expected to complete treatment within 7 months (6 months 1 month grace period). For patients whose sputum does not convert at 2 months, the intensive phase is extended by one more month and the duration of treatment extended to 8 months (7 months 1 month grace period). Patients who took longer than the RNTCP norms to complete treatment were considered irregular. Statistical analysis The data were computerised after scrutiny and further edited for completeness of all information.
