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Perceptions about the management of dyslipidaemia among physicians in Jamaica and Trinidad
H A Monsanto1, M Prann, J G Quijada
1Medical Department, Merck Sharp and Dohme (IA) Corporation, PO Box 3689, Carolina, Puerto Rico. homero_monsanto@merck.com
Insights
Physician perceptions of dyslipidaemia management vary in Jamaica and Trinidad, with guideline awareness but inconsistent adherence. Reinforcing proper management strategies is crucial for reducing coronary heart disease risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Dyslipidaemia management is key to reducing coronary heart disease (CHD) morbidity and mortality.
- Understanding physician perspectives is vital for effective public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate physician perceptions of dyslipidaemia management in Jamaica and Trinidad.
- To identify factors influencing prescribing habits and guideline adherence.
Main Methods:
- 111 physicians in Jamaica (61) and Trinidad (50) were interviewed using a structured questionnaire.
- Participants were primarily primary care physicians (PCPs) or internal medicine specialists, with most in private practice.
Main Results:
- Physician prescribing decisions were driven by drug efficacy (76%), safety (59%), and price (36%).
- While 92% reported using treatment guidelines, awareness of specific guidelines like the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) varied.
- Jamaican physicians reported higher LDL-C thresholds for initiating drug therapy and setting treatment goals compared to Trinidadian physicians.
Conclusions:
- Physicians acknowledge dyslipidaemia treatment guidelines, but adherence and source of information differ by country and specialty.
- Targeted reinforcement of dyslipidaemia management protocols by professional societies and government agencies is recommended.
Background:
Proper management of dyslipidaemia in patients may reduce morbidity and mortality related to coronary heart disease.
Objective:
To determine physician perceptions of the management of dyslipidaemia in Jamaica and Trinidad
Methods:
Personal interviews were conducted from March to May, 2005, by an independent research firm using a structured questionnaire.
Results:
A total of 111 interviews were conducted, 61 in Jamaica and 50 in Trinidad Respondents were mostly primary care physicians (PCP) or internal medicine physicians (76.5%) and 58% were in private practice. The most important factors for prescribing a drug for dyslipidaemia were related to efficacy (76%), safety (59%) and price (36%). The majority (92%) reported using treatment guidelines. The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) guidelines were the most widely mentioned by physicians but there were reports of using guidelines from other organizations and physician groups. Nearly a third of all physicians, most of whom were PCPs, had not heard of the NCEP The LDL-C level at which drug therapy should be started and the LDL-C treatment goals were higher among Jamaican physicians.
Conclusions:
Physicians are aware of the existence of treatment guidelines for dyslipidaemia. However, the source and adherence to the guidelines varies according to country and specialty. Information about the proper management of dyslipidaemia must be reinforced by professional societies and government agencies.
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