Antihypertensive medication non-adherence and its associated factors among adult patients with uncontrolled hypertension in a primary care setting

Introduction: Medication nonadherence is a significant challenge in the management of patients with hypertension. This study aimed to assess antihypertensive medication nonadherence and its associated factors in a cohort of patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 225 adult patients with uncontrolled hypertension systematically selected from attendees of the general outpatient clinic of an academic tertiary hospital in Kano, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on their sociodemographic, clinical, and follow-up appointment characteristics. An 8-item medication adherence scale was used to assess medication adherence. Results: There were 155 (68.9%) females. The participants’ median age (interquartile range [IQR]) was 55 (45–63) years. Their median adherence score (IQR) was 4 (1–6) of 8, while 87.1% were non-adherent to antihypertensive medication. The duration of treatment (p = 0.009), current blood pressure (p = 0.006), and adherence to follow-up clinic appointments(p = 0.0004) were significantly associated with their median medication nonadherence scores. Conclusion: The prevalence of medication non-adherence in this population is high; however, patients who have been treated for more than 5 years, those with high blood pressure readings (Stage 2 hypertension), and those who were adherent to follow-up appointments had worse medication adherence scores than the other counterparts. These findings justify the need to extensively explore (especially those with long duration of treatment and Stage 2 blood pressure readings) and address the reasons for non-adherence to antihypertensive medication (which should include the identified associated factors), given that medication adherence is crucial in controlling hypertension and its consequences.

Assessment of medication adherence among hypertensive patients in a tertiary care teaching hospital in India

Background: Hypertension is a chronic disorder and a prevalent non-communicable disease in India. With the increasing burden of hypertension, adherence to antihypertensive therapy plays a vital role to control blood pressure and preventing its complications. Therefore, this study was done in our tertiary care hospital to understand the medication adherence level in hypertension patients. Aims and Objectives: To assess adherence to antihypertensive medications in hypertensive patients using pre-tested structured questionnaire. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted for 3 months in 100 hypertensive patients. The adherence status of patients to antihypertensive medications was assessed using an eight-item Morisky’s Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). Results: Majority of the study participants in our study were >50 years (68%) and females (64%). We observed that patients taking combination therapy better adhered to medication than monotherapy. We assessed in detail the medication adherence level among study participants using MMAS-8 and analyzed the reasons for non-adherence. Conclusion: The medication adherence rate in our study was found to be moderate to high, which needs to be maintained to attain optimal clinical benefit and also to prevent hypertension-related complications.

A equipe de saúde diante do paciente não aderente ao tratamento / The health team in face of the patient not adhering to treatment / El equipo de salud ante el paciente que no se adhiere al tratamiento

O objetivo deste estudo foi refletir sobre os efeitos da não adesão ao tratamento para a equipe de saúde e sobre as ações/reações da equipe que podem causar a não adesão ao tratamento. A amostra foi composta por 10 profissionais de saúde. O instrumento de coleta de dados foi uma entrevista semiestruturada. O material coletado foi submetido à análise temática, e discussão foi baseada na psicanálise. Como resultado, verificou-se que os profissionais relacionaram a não adesão às carências percebidas nos pacientes. Também foi identificada a presença de um ciclo de encaminhamentos, o qual, por vezes, significava uma tentativa de eliminar um incômodo (a não adesão), mas, em contrapartida, o causava. Verificou-se também a presença de confusão entre cuidado e controle, produzindo relações permeadas por desconfiança, verificação e correção. Percebeu-se, ainda, relação entre não adesão e frustração, seja porque o tratamento é insuficiente para evitar o sofrimento do paciente, seja pelo desconforto advindo da não cooperação do paciente. Ao final, como efeitos para a equipe, evidenciou-se a presença de profissionais envolvidos por um discurso de frustração, desvalorização e impotência. Como efeitos da equipe, verificou-se que profissionais também podem produzir aquilo de que se queixam, pelos lugares subjetivos que delineiam e cristalizam. A partir disso, problematiza-se o sentido que a não adesão pode assumir, e é importante considerá-la como um sinal que pode revelar os percalços (e as possíveis resoluções) do contrato relacional entre paciente e equipe.(AU)

The objective of this study was to reflect about the effects of non-adherence to the treatment for the health team and about the actions/reactions of the team that may can cause the non-adherence to the treatment. The sample consisted of 10 health professionals. The data collection instrument was a semi-structured interview. The material collected was submitted to thematic analysis, and the discussion was based on psychoanalysis. As a result, it was verified that the professionals related non-adherence to needs perceived on patients. The presence of a referral cycle was also identified, which, sometimes, meant an attempt to eliminate a nuisance (the non-adherence) but, instead, caused it. It was also verified the presence of confusion between care and control, producing relations permeated by distrust, verification, and correction. The link between non-adherence and frustration was also observed, either due to the treatment being insufficient to avoid the suffering of the patient; or by the discomfort from the non-cooperation of the patient. At the end, as effects for the team, professionals involved by a discourse of frustration, devaluation, and impotence were evidenced. As effects of the team, it has been found that professionals can also produce what they complain about, by the subjective places that were delineate and crystallize. Thus, we problematize the meaning non-adherence may assume, and considering it a signal that can reveal the mishaps (and possible resolutions) of the relational contract between patient and team is important.(AU)

El objetivo de este estudio fue reflexionar sobre los efectos de la no adherencia al tratamiento para el equipo de salud y sobre las acciones/reacciones del equipo que pueden causar la no adherencia al tratamiento. La muestra estuvo conformada por diez profesionales de la salud. El instrumento de recolección de datos fue una entrevista semiestructurada. El material recolectado fue sometido a análisis temático, y se utilizó el psicoanálisis para discutir el material. El resultado constató que los profesionales entendieron la no adherencia como una carencia/necesidad de los pacientes. También se identificó la presencia de un ciclo de derivación, que a veces significó un intento de eliminar una molestia (falta de adherencia), pero que puede generar el problema. También se verificó la presencia de confusión entre cuidado y control, produciendo relaciones permeadas de desconfianza, verificación y corrección. También se observó el vínculo entre la no adherencia y la frustración, ya sea porque el tratamiento es insuficiente para evitar el sufrimiento del paciente o por la incomodidad que produce la falta de cooperación del paciente. Al final, como efectos para el equipo, se evidenciaron profesionales envueltos por la frustración, la devaluación y la impotencia. Como efectos del equipo, se constató que los profesionales también pueden producir lo que quejan desde los lugares subjetivos que fueron delineados y cristalizados. Así se discute el sentido que puede asumir la no adherencia, y es importante considerarla como señal de los percances (y posibles resoluciones) del contrato relacional entre paciente y equipo.(AU)

The effects of adequate dietary calcium intake in patients with hypoparathyroidism non-adherent to treatment: a prospective randomized controlled trial

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: A significant problem that compels clinicians in the conventional treatment of hypoparathyroidism is patients' non-adherence to treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adequate Ca intake with dietary recommendations among hypoparathyroidism patients who persistently use Ca supplementation irregularly on plasma Ca and phosphate levels. METHODS: This prospective, randomized, controlled study was conducted on patients diagnosed with chronic hypoparathyroidism who persistently interrupt Ca supplementation therapy and therefore have a hypocalcemic course. Patients with a total daily Ca intake below 800 mg were randomized. All patients were advised to keep the doses of active vitamin D and Ca supplements they were currently using. The patients in the study group (n=32) were advised to consume 1,000-1,200 mg of Ca daily, and the patients in the control group (n=35) were advised to continue their diet according to their daily habits. After 12 weeks of follow-up, the patients' laboratory values were compared between groups to assess treatment goals. RESULTS: The mean of the total Ca level was 8.56±0.36 mg/dL in the study group and was found to be significantly higher than that in the control group, which was 7.67±0.48 mg/dL (p<0.001). The mean serum phosphate and serum Ca-P product levels were significantly higher in the study group (p<0.001) but did not exceed the safe upper limits in any patient. CONCLUSION: A suitable increase in dietary Ca intake could effectively control hypocalcemia in patients with hypoparathyroidism who persistently interrupt the recommended calcium supplementation.

Caractéristiques épidémio-cliniques et évolutives des dysthyroïdies autoimmunes au centre national hospitalier universitaire Hubert Koudougou Maga (CNHU-HKM) de Cotonou / Epidemiological, clinical and evolutionary characteristics of autoimmune dysthyroidism in the National University Center Hubert Koutoukou Maga (CNHU-HKM) Of Cotonou

Objectif : Etudier les caractéristiques épidémio cliniques et évolutives des dysthyroïdies auto immunes dans le service d'endocrinologie diabétologie du CNHU-HKM. Matériel et méthode d'étude : Il s'agit d'une étude transversale descriptive et analytique ayant porté sur les patients reçus en consultation pour une pathologie thyroïdienne dans le service d'endocrinologie diabétologie sur une période de 10 ans. Ont été inclus les patients ayant au moins une TSH anormale et les anticorps anti thyroïdiens positifs. Résultats : Sur la période d'étude, nous avons enregistré 2883 consultants, 347 avaient une pathologie thyroïdienne, dont 69 cas de dysthyroïdie auto-immune répartis en 54 cas de maladie de Basedow et 15 cas de maladie de Hashimoto. Les dysthyroïdies auto immunes représentaient donc 2,39 % des consultations et 19,89% des thyroïdopathies. Les fréquences de la maladie de Basedow et de la maladie de Hashimoto étaient respectivement de 1,87% (54 cas) et 0,52% (15 cas) parmi les consultations. Les dysthyroïdies auto immunes étaient plus fréquentes dans les tranches d'âge de 30 à 40 et 40 à 50 ans. Les manifestations les plus fréquentes de la maladie de Basedow étaient l'asthénie (94,4%), l'amaigrissement (87,0%) et la tachycardie (85,2%) . Quant à la maladie de Hashimoto les principales manifestations étaient représentées par une asthénie (86,66%), un goitre (66,6%) et une prise de poids (60%). Le titre initial élevé des anticorps anti R-TSH, l'hypothyroïdie iatrogène ont été retrouvés comme des facteurs associés au suivi prolongé de la maladie de Basedow au-delà de 18 mois. Conclusion : Les dysthyroïdies auto-immunes sont des affections fréquentes dominées par la maladie de Basedow. Leur évolution sous traitement est influencée par des facteurs cliniques, biologiques et échographiques.

Objective: To study the epidemiological, clinical and evolutionary characteristics of autoimmune dysthyroidism in the endocrinology-diabetes department of the CNHU-HKM. Material and method: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study of patients seen for thyroid pathology in the endocrinology diabetology department over a 10-year period. Patients with at least one abnormal TSH and positive anti-thyroid antibodies were included. Results: Over the study period, we recorded 2883 consultants, 347 of them having thyroid diseases, including 69 cases of autoimmune dysthyroidism divided into 54 cases of Graves' disease and 15 cases of Hashimoto's disease. Autoimmune dysthyroidism represented 2.39% of consultations and 19.89% of thyroid disorders. Graves' disease and Hashimoto's disease accounted for 1.87% (54 cases) and 0.52% (15 cases) of consultations respectively. Autoimmune dysthyroidism was more frequent in the 30-40 and 40-50 age groups. The most frequent symptoms of Graves' disease were asthenia (94.4%), weight loss (87.0%) and tachycardia (85.2%). In Hashimoto's disease, the main symptoms were asthenia (86.66%), goiter (66.6%) and weight gain (60%). High initial R-TSH antibody levels and iatrogenic hypothyroidism were found to be factors associated with extended follow-up of Graves' disease beyond 18 months. Conclusion: Autoimmune dysthyroidism is a frequent condition, with Graves' disease predominating. Their evolution under therapy is influenced by clinical, biological and ultrasonographic factors.

Drug adherence to anti-tubercular treatment during COVID-19 lockdown in Haldwani block of Nainital district

Background: India saw one of the stringent lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the wake of this period, the normal functioning of medical services was affected. People were reluctant to seek medical attention and notification of Tuberculosis dipped. The aim of the study was to estimate the proportion of non-adherence to anti-tubercular treatment and to identify the factors affecting the non-adherence to treatment. Methods: A retrospective community-based study was conducted among 284 tuberculosis patients. They were interviewed using a pre-designed questionnaire consisting of WHO dimensions of non-adherence and lockdown related questions. Results: The proportion of non-adherence to treatment was found to be 5.3%. Factors like chronic diseases, depression, without knowledge on how the disease is transmitted and that medication can be discontinued once the symptoms subsided, alcohol consumption, and trouble accessing medicine were found to be the determining factors in non-adherence to the treatment. Conclusions: Non-adherence to anti-tuberculosis treatment in our study was low but the various dimensions of adherence along with lockdown related factors had significant impact on it. To further minimize non-adherence during emergency like the lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic, corrective measures must be explored and implemented.

Esplenomegalia masiva en el curso de reactivación de histoplasmosis diseminada en paciente de sida / Massive splenomegaly in the course of disseminated histoplasmosis reactivation in an AIDS patient

Introducción: La histoplasmosis diseminada es la forma de presentación más frecuente de esta micosis endémica en pacientes de sida. La esplenomegalia consecuente es muy frecuente, pero generalmente no es masiva. Objetivo: Describir un caso no frecuente de esplenomegalia masiva por histoplasmosis diseminada en un paciente de sida. Caso clínico: Se presenta el caso de un paciente de sida diagnosticado hacía 14 años. Desde entonces cumplió tratamiento antirretroviral en forma irregular. Tuvo un primer evento de esta micosis 10 años atrás. En esa ocasión, tuvo tratamiento antimicótico por 4 meses sin continuar con profilaxis secundaria. Inició con síntomas sugestivos de reactivación de la enfermedad 6 meses después. Se mantuvo sintomático en forma recurrente por todos esos años y acudió en fecha actual en estadio avanzado con linfadenopatías grandes y hepatoesplenomegalia masiva. Se confirmó el diagnóstico mediante biopsia ganglionar y se impuso tratamiento antimicótico, con lo cual los síntomas desaparecieron y hubo una reducción ostensible de los órganos que estaban aumentados de tamaño. Conclusión: La esplenomegalia masiva puede presentarse en esta enfermedad. En este caso debe haber sido originada por el largo periodo de reactivación, a su vez determinado por el estado de inmunodepresión oscilante, ya muy avanzado en el momento de su presentación, por la irregularidad del tratamiento antirretroviral y la falta de profilaxis secundaria de la micosis(AU)

Introduction: Disseminated histoplasmosis is the most frequent form of presentation of this endemic mycosis in AIDS patients. Splenomegaly commonly occurs as a consequence of it, but it is not usually massive. Objective: To describe an uncommon case of massive splenomegaly caused by disseminated histoplasmosis in an AIDS patient. Clinical case: The case of an AIDS patient diagnosed 14 years ago is presented. Since diagnosis, the patient has been under antiretroviral treatment irregularly. The first event of this mycosis was 10 years ago. In that occasion, antimitotic treatment was prescribed for four months without secondary prophylaxis. Six months later, symptoms suggestive of reactivation of the disease started. The patient remained symptomatic on a recurrent basis over these years, and attended recently to the hospital in an advanced stage of the disease with large lymphadenopathies and massive hepatosplenomegaly. Diagnostic was confirmed by node biopsy, and antimycotic treatment was indicated, resulting in the resolution of the symptoms and an evident reduction of the enlarged organs. Conclusions: Massive splenomegaly can be present in this disease. In this case, it should have been originated due to a long reactivation period which was determined by the varying and advanced immunosuppressed state, the irregularity with the antiretroviral treatment, and the lack of secondary prophylaxis for the mycosis(AU)

The Rate of Adherence to Antibiotics and Reasons for Non-adherence among the Public

Aim:Poor adherence to antibiotics is common and related to poorer clinical outcomes such as increasing the bacterial resistance.To explore the rate of adherence to antibiotics and to know the reasons that lead to antibiotic non-adherence among the public.Methodology:This is a retrospective study include an online questionnaire survey for the participantswho were prescribed oral antimicrobial drugs during the last year.The data was collected and analyzedusing Excel sheet software and the Descriptive data were presented by frequencies and percentages.Results:The majority of the respondents stated that they sometimes forget to take their antibiotics.Moreover, 78.3% of them said that sometimes they forget to carry their drugs when they go out. They reported many reasons for noncompliance but the major reasons were “they do not need to continue treatment once the condition improves” followed by “they are too busy in study or work”.Conclusion:Numerous factors lead to antibiotic noncompliance, but the main reasons were related to the public knowledge and attitude. Therefore, antimicrobial stewardship programs should focus on the patient education to solve the problem of non-compliance

Evaluation of Outcomes after Implementation of Induction of Labour Protocol at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

Objective:To evaluate the incidence of failed induction of labour (FIOL), and determined whether this resulted from non-adherence to the induction of labour protocol.Design and Methods:This study was a retrospective cohort analysis of all term patients who underwent induction of labour from 1st January to 30th June 2018. Materials:GPHC IOL protocol, inpatient charts, nurses and theatre log books, electronic handing over records, Microsoft Excel, Word and www.medcalc.org/calc/odds_ratio.php.Results:They were 388 patients induced that met the eligibility criteria outlined, 298 were included in the study while 90 were excluded because of failure to locate the patient records. 77,5% ofthe term patients induced achieved spontaneous vaginal delivery and 21,8% delivered by cesarean section, the nulliparous patients had a higher incidence of cesarean delivery at 33,1% (P=0,0514), compared with the multiparous patients 10,6% (P=0,0158). Therate of FIOL was 10,4% (31 patients). 48,4% of these diagnosis were not in accordance with the labour induction protocol (P=<0,0001).Conclusions:The incidence of FIOL was 10,4%, of which 48,4% was not in accordance to the protocol. Standardization of management and adherence to the labour induction protocol decreases the time to delivery and cesarean section rate. Recommendations:The diagnosis of FIOL should be made in accordance with the international guidelines adapted by GPHC’s induction protocol.

Assessment of adherence to anti tuberculosis medication for successful implementation of revised national tuberculosis programme at a tertiary care hospital, Shimoga: a cross-sectional observational study

Background: This study assessed level of non-adherence to anti tuberculosis (TB) therapy among pulmonary TB patients, compares various factors among adherent and non-adherent TB patients, stressing on reasons for non-adherence at a tertiary care hospital.Methods: This institution based observational and cross-sectional study was conducted interviewing patients with pulmonary TB and assessed using Moriskys medication adherence scale-8 (MMAS-8), a pre- tested structured questionnaire based scoring system of patients treated for pulmonary TB at district TB centre SIMS, Shimoga. Descriptive statistics were employed.Results: Among 70 cases analysed, 57 were males and 13 females, with mean age group of 41.32�63 and mean MMAS score of 2.23�87. 53.33% patients were on continuous phase of treatment. The level of non-adherence were as follows, high= 18%, medium= 38% and low= 44%. The common cause for non-adherence was forgetfulness (66%) reasons being: betterment of symptoms (54%), sickness after taking medication (31%), distance of travel: far (15%). Many were labourers (62%), with low literacy rate, also chronic alcoholics (72%) and smokers (73%). Female with moderate literacy and not addicted to alcohol/smoking showed high adherence compared to males (p<0.05%).Conclusions: As prevalence of non-adherence is high, especially Patients on continuous phase of TB treatment, there arises immense need for continuous and effective health education to patients� and their family regarding the adverse effects and the need for high level of adherence to treatment for the complete cure of disease. Patients who are addicted to alcohol/smoking should be targeted with interventions to quit the same, provide free transport facility to RNTCP centres and prompt treatment of ADR, will improve adherence to medication.

Assessment of knowledge and adherence to therapy among chronic kidney disease patients attending nephrology department of tertiary care hospital, Kurnool city, Andhra Pradesh

Background: High level of adherence to prescribed medication is very essential to obtain the desired outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Non-adherence to medication has been associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and higher costs of care. Objectives: The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) To assess adherence to medications in CKD patients, (2) to know the patient’s knowledge regarding treatment, and (3) to study factors associated with nonadherence to medications in CKD patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the nephrology department of a tertiary care hospital. Patients (n = 206) aged >18 years, diagnosed with CKD and on treatment for >3 months were interviewed. Permission from ethical committee was taken and informed consent was obtained from the study subjects before start of the study. Morisky Medication Adherence Questionnaire (MMAQ) was used to assess overall adherence. A high score indicates poor adherence. Results: Of 206 patients, 1.46% (3) were Stage 1, 2.91% (6) were Stage 2, 11.17% (23) were Stage 3, 15.53% (32) were Stage 4, and 68.93% (142) were Stage 5 of CKD according to the National Kidney Foundation 2002 guidelines. Using the MMAQ, high, medium, and low adherence was reported in 23.30%, 42.23%, and 34.47% of patients, respectively. An average number of medicines taken in a day by each patient was 5.75 ± 0.707. Common causes of non-adherence were forgetfulness (71.51%), high cost of medicine (24.05%), and large pill burden (18.35%). Conclusions: Non-adherence remains a major obstacle in the effective management of CKD population. Periodic counseling about the importance of medication adherence to the patients and caregivers is essential to improve adherence.

Medication non-adherence related to patients’ attitudes and knowledge rather than socio-cultural factors: a study of cardiac clinic attendees at a public healthcare institute

Background: Medication non-adherence contributes significantly to sub-optimum care, for reasons that could be unique to specific localities. The study sought to identify reasons for non-adherence and associated factors in cardiac clinic attendees at a leading tertiary health institution in Trinidad and Tobago.Methods: This cross-sectional study included a convenience sample of cardiac clinic attendees. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire comprising items regarding socio-demographic characteristics, medical history, social support and reasons for medication non-adherence. Data were collected between March and July, 2016. Non-adherence was identified with total scores of >1 using selected similar questions to that used in the Morisky four-item adherence instrument. Data analyses involved both descriptive and inferential methods.Results: Non-adherent patients represented the largest proportion of participants (n=270, 78.3%). Participants were predominantly women, aged >50 years, of Indo-Trinidadian descent, married, and unemployed. Carelessness (n=251, 93.0%), ceasing medication use when feeling well (n=217, 80.4%), forgetfulness (n=187, 69.3%), and ceasing medication use when feeling worse (n=151, 50.6%) were the leading reasons for non-adherence, followed by unpleasant effects of medication and cost (n=144, 53.3%). Associated factors included feeling that one would become more ill upon ceasing medication use (p=0.003), the importance of understanding the reasons for taking medication (p=0.017), the importance of following physicians’ instructions (p=0.023), and educational level (p=0.040).Conclusions: Effective communication regarding patients’ concerns and potential adverse medication effects between patients and healthcare providers could promote greater adherence

Korean Medication Algorithm for Bipolar Disorder 2018 : Safety and Tolerability / 우울ㆍ조울병

OBJECTIVES: Treatment for bipolar disorder is often complicated by various clinical situations. We undertook a survey of expert opinions to facilitate clinical decisions in special situations such as weight gain, metabolic syndrome, hyperprolactinemia, genetic counseling, and treatment adherence.METHODS: A written survey that asked treatment strategies related to safety and tolerability, was prepared focused on weight gain, antipsychotic related hyperprolactinemia, lamotrigine related skin rash, treatment non-adherence and genetic counseling. Sixty-one experts of the review committee completed the survey.RESULTS: In the case of weight gain related to medications, experts preferred exercise and education for diet-control. First chosen medications were lamotrigine, aripiprazole and ziprasidone. Recommendations based on expert survey results for treatment of bipolar patients in other special situations are outlined.CONCLUSION: With limitation of expert opinions, authors hope that results of this study provide valuable information to make clinical decisions about treatment of bipolar disorder in complicated situations.

Factores de riesgo para la no adherencia al tratamiento, de cuidadores familiares de niños con cáncer / Risk factors for non-adherence to treatment of family caregivers of children with cancer

La situación, de los factores de riesgo para la no adherencia a los tratamientos, ha sido abordada por la OMS, como un problema multifactorial. Es así, como en el caso de los niños con cáncer, siendo una enfermedad crónica no transmisible, se hace necesario intervenir a los cuidadores familiares, sobre la toma de conciencia acerca de la importancia de seguir el tratamiento y que el temor no sea un motivo para perder el contacto con el equipo de salud. Objetivo: Determinar los factores de riesgo para la no adherencia al tratamiento, de cuidadores familiares de niños con cáncer. Método: Estudio de abordaje cuantitativo, descriptivo y corte transversal, en el cual se incluyeron 110 cuidadores familiares de niños con cáncer, con edades comprendidas entre 0 y 14 años, con mínimo 3 meses de tratamiento, en el Instituto Nacional de Cancerología. Se aplicó la ficha de caracterización de pacientes con enfermedad crónica del grupo "Cuidado de Enfermería al Paciente Crónico y su familia" y el Instrumento para evaluar los Factores que Influyen en la Adherencia a los Tratamientos Farmacológicos y no Farmacológicos en Pacientes con Riesgo de Enfermedad Cardiovascular (tercera Versión). Análisis: se utilizó estadística descriptiva. Resultados El factor socioeconómico, para los cuidadores familiares, se ubicó como elemento de riesgo para la no adherencia a los tratamientos, mientras que el factor relacionado con el proveedor se encontró en el rango de ventaja para adherencia. Conclusiones: Los cuidadores familiares de niños con cáncer, presentaron comportamientos que indican que su adherencia es buena y como factor influyente los relacionados con el equipo de salud.

The situation of the risk factors for the non-adherence to treatments has been tackled by the OMS, like a multifactorial problem. For that, as in the case of children with cancer, being a chronic non-transmissible disease, it´s necessary intervene the family Caregivers, about the awareness relating to the importance of follow the treatment and that fear is not a reason to lose the contact whit the health team. Objective: Determine the risk factors for the no adherence to treatment of family Caregivers of children with cancer. Method: Study of quantitative, descriptive and cross-section approach, in which one were include 110 family Caregivers of children with cancer, with ages between 0 and 14 year, with minimum 3 months of treatment, in the National Institute of Cancerology. The characterization card of patients with chronic disease of the group "Care of Nursing to the Chronic Patient and his family" and the Instrument to evaluate the Factors that Influence the Adherence to Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Treatments in Patients at Risk of Cardiovascular Disease was applied. (Third Version). Analysis: Descriptive statistics was used. Results: The socioeconomic factor for family caregivers was assign like the risk element for no adherence to treatments, while the factor related to the supplier was found in the range of advantage for adherence. Conclusions: The family Caregivers of children with cancer presented behaviors that indicate that their adherence is good and as an influential factor, the related with the health team

Barriers and Motivation Factors towards Treatment Compliance from the Perspective of Defaulted Tuberculosis Patients in Kuala Lumpur / Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia

There is a large volume of published studies describing the adverse relationship between treatment non-adherence with tuberculosis treatment outcome. Non-adherence could result in increased risks of prolonged infectiousness, drug resistance, relapse cases and poor survival among tuberculosis patients. Nevertheless, few studies are to be found providing detailed on the reason of defaulting treatment among tuberculosis patients in Malaysia. Hence the goal of this paper is to find out the barriers and motivations factors that affect patients’ treatment compliance among our local tuberculosis patients. This is a qualitative study which included 12 in-depth interviews with tuberculosis non-compliance patients who were treated at Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Kuala Lumpur. All the conversations were recorded, transcribed and analysed by using thematic analysis. It was found that low knowledge, self-negative attitudes, traditional believes, negative perceptions towards health caregiver, drug side effects, stigma, financial problems, less family support and work commitments are the barriers that prevent the patients from religiously taking their anti-tuberculosis treatment. Meanwhile, factors that encourage them to continue their treatment were the believes of bad effects of the disease onto their lives and health, good relationship between patient and health caregiver and social support from people around them. In conclusion, non-adherence involved a dynamic influence of individual, socio-economic and treatment-related factors on the patients. The results presented here may facilitate improvement in the activities in promoting compliance among tuberculosis patients in the future which tailored to the patients’ specific needs.

Fatores que dificultam a não adesão à prática regular de atividade física em pessoas idosas / Factors that hinder the non-adherence to regular physical activity in elderly adults / Factores que dificultan la no adhesión a la práctica regular de actividad física en adultos mayores

Estudo de método misto, ênfase no enfoque qualitativo, utilizou a técnica Snowball Sampling. Realizado na Bahia, Brasil, entre janeiro/2014 a setembro/2015. Objetivou averiguar os fatores que conduzem as pessoas a não adesão à prática regular de atividade física. Os resultados evidenciaram comprometimento de saúde, dificuldade de conseguir atestado médico, indisponibilidade por demandas familiares, e baixa motivação. Conclui-se que estes saberes são necessários ao delineamento, gestão e planejamento em saúde, posto as evidências do elevado índice de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em nosso meio, no sentido de guiar-se pela via da promoção da saúde.

A mixed method study with a qualitative approach that implement the snowball technique. The study was developed in Bahia, Brazil, between January/2014 and September/2015. It was aimed at identifying the factors that lead people to non-adherence to regular physical activity. The results showed that the reasons were related to health problems, difficulty in getting a medical certificate, unavailability because of family demands and low motivation. We conclude that this knowledge is necessary for the delineation of management and planning in healthcare, in the sense of guiding new health promotion strategies as a result of high rates of chronic non-communicable diseases in our reality.

Estudio de método mixto, con enfoque cualitativo, que utilizó la técnica de snowball. Realizado en Bahia, Brasil, entre enero/2014 y septiembre/2015. Objetivó identificar los factores que conducen a las personas a la no adhesión a la práctica regular de actividad física. Los resultados evidenciaron compromiso de salud, dificultad de conseguir un certificado médico, indisponibilidad por demandas familiares y baja motivación. Se concluye que estos saberes son necesarios para el delineamiento de la gestión y planeamiento en salud, en el sentido de guiar nuevas estrategias de promoción de salud, como consecuencia de los elevados índices de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles en nuestro medio.

Papel da resiliência e religiosidade na adesão terapêutica em pacientes em hemodiálise

Resiliência e religiosidade têm recebido importante atenção no manejo de pacientes com comorbidades crônicas; no entanto, não há nenhum estudo avaliando a resiliência em pacientes em hemodiálise e sua associação com outras dimensões psicológicas ou com a adesão ao tratamento. Este estudo avaliou a resiliência, a religiosidade sob três dimensões(organizacional, não organizacional e intrínsecos), sintomas depressivos e qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde. Os principais desfechos avaliados foram a adesão à medicação usando o Morisky Adesão à Medicação Scale-8 (MMAR-8) e o numero de sessões de diálise perdidas/abreviadas nos seis meses seguintes. Dos 208 pacientes abordados, 202 (97,1%) concordaram em participar da pesquisa. Cento e vinte e três pacientes (60,9%) eram do sexo masculino e a média de idade foi de 52,8 ± 14,8 anos de idade. O tempo médio em hemodiálise foi de 36meses (IQR, 12, 84). 82 (40,6%) pacientes obtiveram uma pontuação MMAS <6 e foram considerados como tendo "baixa adesão". No geral, a média do escore de adesão à medicação foi baixa (5,7 ± 2,1). Sobre a adesão a sessões de hemodiálise, os pacientes perderam um total de 234 sessões (1,6%) de hemodiálise. Quarenta e oito pacientes (23,7%) perderam uma média de pelo menos três sessões em seis meses. Em relação à adesão à medicação, não houve associação na análise uni ou multivariada entre as dimensões de religiosidade e o escore de MMAS. Após o ajuste, a resiliência foi positivamente associado com o escore de MMAS (coeficiente β padronizado 0,239, p = 0,016)...

Resilience and religiosity have received significant attention in the management of patientswith chronic comorbidities; however, there are no studies evaluating resilience inhemodialysis patients and its association with other psychological dimensions or treatmentadherence. This study assessed resilience, religiosity under three dimensions (organizational,non-organizational and intrinsic), depressive symptoms and health-related quality of life. Themain outcomes were medication adherence using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8(MMAR) and the missing/shortened dialysis sessions in the following six months. Of 208patients approached, 202 (97.1%) agreed to participate. One hundred twenty-three patients(60.9%) were males and mean age was 52.8±14.8 years-old. The median time onhemodialysis was 36 months (IQR, 12, 84). 82 (40.6%) patients obtained a MMAS-8 score <6 and were considered as having “poor adherence”. Overall, the mean score of medicationadherence was low (5.7±2.1). About adherence to hemodialysis sessions, patients missed atotal of 234 (1.6%) hemodialysis sessions. Forty-eight patients (23.7%) missed an average ofat least three sessions in six months. Regarding adherence to medication, there was noassociation in the uni- or multivariate analysis between religiosity dimensions and MMAS-8score. After adjustment, resilience was positively associated with MMAS-8 score(standardized β coefficient 0.239, p=0.016)...

Outcome of a grocery voucher incentive scheme for low-income tuberculosis patients on directly observed therapy in Singapore

<p><b>INTRODUCTION</b>The 'DOT & Shop' scheme is sponsored by SATA CommHealth, a local non-governmental organisation. It was launched in July 2009, in collaboration with Singapore's Tuberculosis Control Unit (TBCU). Under this scheme, grocery vouchers are disbursed to low-income patients with tuberculosis (TB) at each clinic visit if they have been adherent to directly observed therapy (DOT). This study aimed to determine the effect of this incentive scheme on treatment completion rates and to report the characteristics of patients who were non-adherent to the scheme.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>This descriptive study used data from the TBCU medical social worker database and the National TB Registry.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>From July 2009 to December 2012, a total of 883 TB patients were enrolled in the scheme. The overall treatment completion rates of the patients before (July 2006-June 2009) and after (July 2009-December 2012) the implementation of the scheme improved from 85.3% to 87.2% (p = 0.02). Patients under this scheme had a higher treatment completion rate (90.0%) than those not under this scheme (86.4%) (p < 0.01). It was found that the non-adherent patients were more likely to be of Malay ethnicity, younger and unemployed.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>We demonstrate the salutary effect of a non-governmental organisation-funded grocery voucher incentive scheme for low-income TB patients on DOT in Singapore.</p>

Antihypertensive medication non-adherence and its determinants among patients on follow up in public hospitals in Northern Ethiopia.

Adherence to pharmacological treatment for hypertension is considered a key factor in guaranteeing successful therapy outcomes. Non-adherence to antihypertensive therapy can be determined by demographic, drug related, disease related and setting related factors. The primary aim of this study was to investigate antihypertensive medication non-adherence and its determinants among patients on follow up in Ayder referral hospital and Mekelle general hospital. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Ayder Referral Hospital (ARH) and Mekelle General Hospital (MGH) from May to June, 2013. A total of 121 patients were interviewed with a structured standard questionnaire and patient medication charts were reviewed. The questionnaire contained of demographic questions, the 8-item Morisky medication adherence scale (MMAS) and questions about characteristics of hypertension and its therapy. The data collected were cleaned, entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 16 for windows with 95% confidence interval and P value <0.05. Results: Around one fourth (26.4%) of the study participants were found to be non-adherent to their treatment. Family support on adherence (AOR = 0.170, 95%CI = 0.030-0.905), spot blood pressure (AOR = 0.052, 95%CI = 0.003-0.242), place of patient residence (AOR = 0.184, 95%CI =0.024-0.597) and hypertension related complications (AOR = 21.737, 95%CI = 1.568-418.428) were found significantly and strongly associated with treatment non-adherence. Conclusions: A quarter of the participants of this study were completely non-adherent and only around half of them were adherent to their medications. The absence of family support, being at the prehypertension class of blood pressure, living in Mekelle city and presence of hypertensive heart disease were shown to decrease adherence to antihypertensive medications. Therefore, health care professionals should be adequately trained and resourced to offer proper counseling to hypertensive patients on their medication and disease conditions.

Prevalence of Relapse and Associated Factors in Patient with Schizophrenia at Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Institution.

More than fifty one and half millionpeople globally and nationally suffer from schizophrenia. Relapse rates vary from 50% to 92% globally. Factors that associated with relapse are drug non adherence, substance abuse, co-morbid illness and stressful life events. Aims to assess prevalence and associated factors of schizophrenia relapse among patients at Amanuel Mental Specialized hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Institution based cross sectional study conducted at Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital from April one to thirty 2011. Data were collected by using pretested semi structured questionnaire in form of interview technique to collect data from 422 patients. The collected data were exposed to statistical treatments.Among participants 43.3% of them had relapse of schizophrenia. Factors with associated to schizophrenia relapse were depression, 1.95 [AOR (95% C.I, 1.95(1.17, 3.25)], suicidal ideation [AOR (95% C.I, 9.12(4.59, 17.92)] and drug non-adherence have a significance association with relapse of schizophrenia [AOR (95% C.I, 2.80(1.58, 4.96)]. The prevalence of relapse of schizophrenia is a common and major problem in Ethiopia and factors that are associated with relapse are depression, drug non adherence and suicidal ideation. It is better to launch community based bio psychosocial approaches.