Assessment of Medication Adherence and Awareness in Hypertensive South Indian Population (Research Article)

Author(s): Rama Bobba*, Rashmi Anupozu, TaskeenIffath, Manidhar Vanamala, Srivani.Ch, Raj Kamal B and Parameshwar P

Abstract: Aim- The aim is to assess knowledge and adherence to anti-hypertensive medications in patients diagnosed with hypertension (HTN). Methodology- This is an observational study conducted for a period of 6 months at a tertiary care hospital. Patients diagnosed with hypertension and visiting out-patient department were included. Subjects after giving their consent were asked to fill questionnaire. Patient education was given to all enrolled subjects in study at the session end. Obtained data was entered and analyzed using SPSS software version 26. Results- A total of 300 subjects diagnosed with hypertension were included, out of which 59% were male and 41% were female. 58% of subjects have no knowledge on complications associated with uncontrolled blood pressure, but 42% were aware of it. 81% of subjects were adherent to their anti-HTN medications out of which 77% were from rural and 85% from urban region. Males were found to be more adherent to their daily anti-HTN medications than females. Within the study period, subjects who came back to doctor for review were again questioned about their adherence, awareness and knowledge on medications and clinical condition. 60% of these subjects had improved adherence and knowledge compared to their last visit. Conclusion- The study highlighted that the percentage of adherence in rural hypertensive patients is satisfactory, which may be due to the increased initiation of awareness programs and educating rural people by the clinical pharmacists and health care professionals. The effective pharmacist education plays a major role in improving adherence, knowledge and the treatment outcome.

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