OBJECTIVES: The main aim of this study was to assess the overall tuberculosis treatment success in Ethiopia as per the World Health Organization (WHO) global tuberculosis treatment success target recommendation and to identify potential factors for poor tuberculosis treatment outcome.

METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of published literature was conducted. Original studies were identified through a computerized systematic search using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct databases. Heterogeneity across studies was assessed using the Cochran’s Q test and I statistic. Pooled estimates of treatment success were computed using the fixed effect model with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by Stata 14 software.

RESULTS: A total of 230 articles were identified in the systematic search. Of these 34 observational studies were eligible for systematic review and meta-analysis. It was determined that 117,750 patients reported treatment outcomes. Treatment outcomes were assessed by World Health Organization standard definitions of tuberculosis treatment outcome. The overall pooled tuberculosis treatment success rate in Ethiopia was 87%. Mainly, old age, HIV co-infection, re-treatment cases, and rural residence were the most frequently identified factors associated with poor TB treatment outcome.

CONCLUSIONS: The result of this study revealed that tuberculosis treatment success rate in Ethiopia was below the threshold suggested by WHO (90%). Even though, the treatment success rate is below the goal there is a rise in tuberculosis treatment success in Ethiopia. The closer overall treatment success rate towards WHO target obtained in this study is an indicator of good efforts started against tuberculosis in the country. In order to further improve the treatment success rate, regular follow up of patients during their treatment course and recording of the treatment outcome are strongly recommended.