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.

Representações sociais de pessoas vivendo com hiv: do abandono do tratamento à motivação para a retomada / Representaciones sociales de las personas que viven con vih: del abandono del tratamiento a la motivación para reanudar / Social representations of people living with hiv: from treatment abandonment to motivation for resuming

Introdução: O uso contínuo da terapia antirretroviral é eficiente para interromper a replicação viral causada pelo Vírus da Imunodeficiência Humana impedindo o comprometimento do sistema imunológico e o aparecimento das infecções oportunistas. Estima-se que em 2021, 10,2 milhões de pessoas infectadas pelo HIV não se beneficiaram com o uso dos antirretrovirais em todo o mundo. No mesmo ano esse indicador atingiu 333 mil pessoas, e na esfera municipal de Londrina, 288 pessoas vivendo com HIV encontravam-se em abandono do tratamento. Objetivo: Apreender as representações sociais de pessoas vivendo com HIV acerca do abandono do tratamento e a motivação para a retomada. Percurso metodológico: Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo pautado na Teoria das Representações Sociais de Serge Moscovici. O cenário foi um Serviço de Atendimento Especializado em HIV/aids localizado na região Sul do Brasil. A população foi composta por 288 pessoas diagnosticadas com HIV em abandono do tratamento por período superior a 100 dias. Destas, 250 foram excluídas em função de critérios relacionados a informações cadastrais incompletas ou equivocadas, e aspectos impeditivos do comparecimento ao serviço e de contato. Outras 18 pessoas foram consideradas perdas por desistência. A amostra foi composta por 20 pessoas que se enquadraram aos critérios de elegibilidade e aceitaram participar do estudo. A coleta das informações ocorreu entre junho de 2021 e junho de 2022 em entrevistas semiestruturadas audiogravadas e transcritas na íntegra. Para análise das falas foi utilizado o discurso do sujeito coletivo. Resultados: Participaram do estudo 20 pessoas vivendo com HIV, sendo 12 homens e oito mulheres, com idade entre 27 e 55 anos. O tempo de abandono variou entre 210 e 1580 dias. A análise das entrevistas permitiu a emersão de 18 ideias centrais e duas ancoragens, as quais foram agrupadas em quatro grandes temas: 1) Abandono do tratamento por questões intrínsecas à pessoa vivendo com HIV; 2) Abandono do tratamento por questões ligadas à terapia medicamentosa; 3) Abandono do tratamento por dogmas sociais; 4) Forças propulsoras para a retomada do tratamento. Considerações finais: A análise qualitativa das representações sociais das pessoas vivendo com HIV indicou que o abandono da terapia antirretroviral é multifatorial, e envolve questões socioculturais, geográficas, familiares e biológicas. É essencial considerar todas as questões que permeiam e impactam as vidas das pessoas vivendo com HIV em abandono do tratamento para além das questões biológicas, viabilizando a implementação de ações que contribuam para a efetividade das políticas públicas de saúde no intuito de estimular a adesão e encorajar a retomada ao tratamento. Almeja-se que esta investigação possa despertar para as questões subjetivas ao universo da pessoa que vive com HIV e estas respeitadas na prática humanizada, voltadas ao incentivo do tratamento contínuo para controle da infecção e promoção da qualidade de vida.

Introduction: The continuous use of antiretroviral therapy is efficient to interrupt viral replication caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, preventing the compromise of the immune system and the appearance of opportunistic infections. It is estimated that in 2021, 10.2 million people infected with HIV did not benefit from the use of antiretrovirals worldwide. In the same year, this indicator reached 333,000 people, and at the municipal level of Londrina, 288 people living with HIV were abandoning treatment. Objective: To apprehend the social representations of people living with HIV about abandoning treatment and the motivation for resuming it. Methodological path: This is a qualitative study based on Serge Moscovici's Theory of Social Representations. The setting was a Specialized Care Service for HIV/AIDS located in the south of Brazil. The population consisted of 288 people diagnosed with HIV who had abandoned treatment for more than 100 days. Of these, 250 were excluded due to criteria related to incomplete or wrong registration information, and aspects that impeded attendance at the service and contact. Another 18 people were considered dropout losses. The sample consisted of 20 people who met the eligibility criteria and agreed to participate in the study. Data collection took place between June 2021 and June 2022 in semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded and transcribed in full. For the analysis of the speeches, the collective subject discourse was used. Results: 20 people living with HIV participated in the study, 12 men and eight women, aged between 27 and 55 years. The abandonment time varied between 210 and 1580 days. The analysis of the interviews allowed the emergence of 18 central ideas and two anchors, which were grouped into four major themes: 1) Abandonment of treatment due to issues intrinsic to the person living with HIV; 2) Abandonment of treatment due to issues related to drug therapy; 3) Abandonment of treatment by social dogmas; 4) Driving forces for the resumption of treatment. Final considerations: The qualitative analysis of the social representations of people living with HIV indicated that the abandonment of antiretroviral therapy is multifactorial, and involves sociocultural, geographic, family and biological issues. It is essential to consider all the issues that permeate and impact the lives of people living with HIV who abandon treatment in addition to biological issues, enabling the implementation of actions that contribute to the effectiveness of public health policies in order to stimulate adherence and encourage resumption of treatment. It is hoped that this investigation may awaken to the subjective issues of the universe of the person living with HIV and these respected in humanized practice, aimed at encouraging continuous treatment to control the infection and promote quality of life.

Introducción: El uso continuo de la terapia antirretroviral es eficaz para interrumpir la replicación viral provocada por el Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana, previniendo el compromiso del sistema inmunológico y la aparición de infecciones oportunistas. Se estima que en 2021, 10,2 millones de personas infectadas por el VIH no se beneficiaron del uso de antirretrovirales en todo el mundo. En el mismo año, este indicador alcanzó a 333.000 personas, ya nivel municipal de Londrina, 288 personas viviendo con VIH estaban abandonando el tratamiento. Objetivo: Aprehender las representaciones sociales de personas viviendo con VIH sobre el abandono del tratamiento y la motivación para retomarlo. Camino metodológico: Se trata de un estudio cualitativo basado en la Teoría de las Representaciones Sociales de Serge Moscovici. El escenario fue un Servicio de Atención Especializada en VIH/SIDA ubicado en el sur de Brasil. La población estuvo conformada por 288 personas diagnosticadas con VIH que habían abandonado el tratamiento por más de 100 días. De estos, 250 fueron excluidos por criterios relacionados con información de registro incompleta o incorrecta, y aspectos que impidieron la asistencia al servicio y contacto. Otras 18 personas fueron consideradas pérdidas por deserción. La muestra estuvo conformada por 20 personas que cumplieron con los criterios de elegibilidad y aceptaron participar en el estudio. La recolección de datos ocurrió entre junio de 2021 y junio de 2022 en entrevistas semiestructuradas que fueron grabadas en audio y transcritas en su totalidad. Para el análisis de los discursos se utilizó el discurso del sujeto colectivo. Resultados: Participaron del estudio 20 personas viviendo con VIH, 12 hombres y ocho mujeres, con edades entre 27 y 55 años. El tiempo de abandono varió entre 210 y 1580 días. El análisis de las entrevistas permitió el surgimiento de 18 ideas centrales y dos anclas, que fueron agrupadas en cuatro grandes temas: 1) Abandono del tratamiento por cuestiones intrínsecas a la persona que vive con VIH; 2) Abandono del tratamiento por cuestiones relacionadas con la farmacoterapia; 3) Abandono de tratamiento por dogmas sociales; 4) Fuerzas impulsoras de la reanudación del tratamiento. Consideraciones finales: El análisis cualitativo de las representaciones sociales de las personas viviendo con VIH indicó que el abandono de la terapia antirretroviral es multifactorial, e involucra cuestiones socioculturales, geográficas, familiares y biológicas. Es fundamental considerar todas las cuestiones que permean e impactan la vida de las personas que viven con el VIH que abandonan el tratamiento además de las cuestiones biológicas, posibilitando la implementación de acciones que contribuyan a la efectividad de las políticas públicas de salud para estimular la adherencia y alentar la reanudación. De tratamiento se espera que esta investigación pueda despertar a las cuestiones subjetivas del universo de la persona que vive con VIH y estas respetadas en la práctica humanizada, con el objetivo de incentivar el tratamiento continuo para el control de la infección y promover la calidad de vida.

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.

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)

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)

Nonadherence to immunosuppressives and treatment in kidney transplant: Adhere Brazil Study

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence and variability of nonadherence to immunosuppressives and nonpharmacological treatment across kidney transplantation centers and two health access-disparate regions in Brazil. METHODS In a cross-sectional design, a random multistage sample of 1,105 patients was included, based on center transplantation activity (low/moderate/high) and region (R1: North/Northeast/Mid-West; and R2: South/Southeast). Nonadherence to immunosuppressives (implementation phase) was assessed using the Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale (BAASIS)©. Self-report questionnaires assessed nonadherence to physical activity, smoking cessation, alcohol intake, and appointment keeping. We compared regions using the adjusted-χ2 or t-test. RESULTS Most patients were men (58.5%), white (51.4%), and had a mean age of 47.5 (SD = 12.6) years. Regarding kidney transplantation centers, 75.9% were from R2 and 38.2% had low activity. The patients in R2 were older, white-majority, had more frequently steady partners, and received peritoneal dialysis. Nonadherence to immunosuppressives ranged from 11-65.2%; 44.5-90% to physical activity; 0-23.7% to appointment keeping; and 0-14% to smoking cessation. The total prevalence of nonadherence and by region (R1 versus R2) were: for immunosuppressives, 39.7% (44.9% versus 38.1%, p = 0.18); for smoking, 3.9% (1% versus 5%, p < 0.001); for physical activity, 69.1% (71% versus 69%, p = 0.48); for appointment keeping, 13% (12.7% versus 12%, p = 0.77); and for alcohol consumption, 0%. CONCLUSION Despite differences among centers and high variability, only the nonadherence to smoking cessation was higher in the region with greater access to kidney transplantation. We suppose that differences in healthcare access may have been overcome by other positive aspects of the post kidney transplantation treatment.

Evaluation of nonadherence to treatment among patients with schizophrenia attending psychosocial care centers in the south region of Brazil

Abstract Introduction The treatment of schizophrenia aims to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life and promote recovery from debilitating effects. Nonadherence to treatment is related to several factors and may lead to persistence of symptoms and relapse. Worldwide, the rate of nonadherence to treatment in individuals with schizophrenia is around 50%. Objectives To compare the clinical profile of nonadherent and adherent patients among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia receiving treatment at psychosocial care centers in a city in southern Brazil. Method The clinical-epidemiological profile of patients with schizophrenia was retrospectively analyzed based on medical records entered into the system between January and December 2016, evaluating data at one-year follow-up. Results 112 patients were included. The disease was more prevalent in men; mean age was 40.5 years, being lower among men. Most of the sample had a low level of education, was unemployed/retired, did not have children and resided with relatives. The highest rate of diagnosis was among young adults. Psychotic symptoms were most frequently described, and the most commonly prescribed antipsychotic was haloperidol. The nonadherence rate was 15.2%; only one patient required admission to a psychiatric hospital. Among nonadherent patients, the mean time of attendance was 6 months; there were more nonadherent women than men. The most prevalent age range of nonadherence was 41-64 years. Psychosocial and clinical data were similar across the whole sample. Conclusion A nonadherence rate of 15.2% was found among individuals receiving treatment for schizophrenia, suggesting that psychosocial care centers were effective in treating and monitoring these patients.

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

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV/AIDS in northeastern Brazil: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) may lead to viral replication and development of antiretroviral resistance. OBJECTIVE: To identify the factors associated with nonadherence to ART among people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) (PLWHA). DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study in a tertiary-level hospital in northeastern Brazil. METHODS: Intake of less than 90% of the antiretroviral drugs prescribed in the last week prior to the interview was defined as nonadherence. Intake was evaluated using a questionnaire. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were conducted on the study population, with estimation of the respective odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: The prevalence of nonadherence was 28.4%. Significant associations were found regarding the following variables: age less than 35 years, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, lack of medication and lack of knowledge regarding the patient's HIV status, on the part of the patient's partner or family. CONCLUSIONS: Encouragement of adherence to antiretroviral therapy is one of the fundamental pillars of treatment for HIV-infected patients. The high proportion of nonadherence (28.4%) and the predictive factors related to this indicate that it is necessary to improve patients' adherence to antiretroviral therapy.

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.

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 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

Drowning of a patient with epilepsy while showering

In Japan, because the most common site of drowning among patients with epilepsy is the bathtub, showering is generally recommended as an alternative to bathing. We herein report a case involving a female patient with epilepsy who drowned while showering. She had been diagnosed with epilepsy approximately 25 years previously, and her condition had progressed to refractory epilepsy. Carbamazepine, levetiracetam, lamotrigine, clobazam, and perampanel were prescribed daily. One day while showering, the patient was found lying with her face immersed in water that had accumulated on the floor of the bathtub. A forensic autopsy revealed water in the stomach, trachea, and proximal regions of both lung bronchi as well as white and red foam on the pharynx and larynx. A total of 1.9 μg/mL of lamotrigine, 0.14 μg/mL of carbamazepine, and 0.069 μg/mL of perampanel were detected in the patient's blood. The patient's cause of death was determined to be drowning due to an epileptic seizure. Although the patient was prescribed five types of antiepileptic medication, only three were detected in her blood. The current case demonstrates that drowning can occur while showering, suggesting that it is unsafe for patients with medication nonadherence. To prevent unintentional deaths in the bathroom, we recommend that patients with epilepsy maintain high adherence to all prescriptions and are supervised by a family member, even when showering. The current case is the first autopsy report of a patient with epilepsy who drowned while showering.

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.

Non-Adherence to recommended Pap smear screening guidelines and its associated factors among women attending health clinic in Malaysia

Introduction: Cervical cancer ranks as the second most frequent cancer among women inMalaysia. Although a cervical screening program has been introduced since 1960s and isprovided free of charge in all government health facilities, the coverage and adherence rate torecommendation among Malaysian women remains low.Objectives: To determine the proportion of non-adherence to Pap smear screening guidelines andits associated factors among women attending a health clinic in Malaysia.Method: A cross sectional study involving 316 women aged 20 to 65 years who had undergonea Pap smear. Universal sampling method was applied to select participants among womenwho attended the selected health clinic from January 2013 to May 2013. A self-administeredquestionnaire was used to obtain the socio-demographic characteristics, socio-health data andperceptions about cervical cancer and Pap smear screening. The data was analysed using descriptivestatistics and multiple logistic regression.Result: The proportion of non-adherence to Pap smear screening was 90.5%. Age, marital status,duration of marriage, education level, employment, household income and number of children were notsignificantly associated with non-adherence. Perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefit,perceived barrier and cues to action did not show significant association with non-adherence to Papsmear screening.Conclusion: Non-adherence to Pap smear screening was high among Malaysian women. Measuresshould be taken to increase Pap smear screening coverage in our country. Other factors beyondHealth Belief Model that influence Pap smear screening practice among Malaysian women shouldbe explored.

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

Quality of life, anxiety and depression in patients with HIV/AIDS who present poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy: a cross-sectional study in Salvador, Brazil

Abstract The introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy marked a major gain in efficacy of HIV/AIDS treatment and a reduction in morbidity and mortality of the infected patients. However, high levels of adherence are required to obtain virologic suppression. In Brazil, the policy of free and universal access to antiretroviral therapy has been in place since 1996, although there are reports of poor adherence. Objective To define the clinical, demographic and psychological characteristics, and quality of life of patients with HIV/AIDS who present poor adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy. Methods This was a cross-sectional study. To be included in the study patients had to be 18 through 65 years old, diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, having the two previous viral loads above 500 copies, a surrogate for poor adherence to antiretrovirals. The following instruments were applied to all eligible patients: the sociodemographic questionnaire "Adherence Follow-up Questionnaire", the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and the 36-Item Short Form Survey. Results 47 patients were evaluated, 70.2% were female, mean age of 41.9 years (±10.5), 46.8% were single, 51.1% self-reported adherence ≥95%, 46.8% mentioned depression as the main reason for not taking the medication, 59.5% presented symptoms of moderate to severe depression, and 44.7% presented symptoms of moderate to severe anxiety. Finally, regarding health-related quality of life these patients obtained low scores in all dimensions, physical component summary of 43.96 (±9.64) and mental component summary of 33.19 (±13.35). Conclusion The psychological component is considered to be fundamental in the management of HIV/AIDS patients. Psychoeducation should be conducted at the initial evaluation to reduce negative beliefs regarding antiretroviral therapy Assessment of anxiety and depression symptoms should be done throughout therapy as both psycological conditions are associated with patient adherence, success of treatment, and ultimately with patients' quality of life.