Lacunae in noncommunicable disease control program: Need to focus on adherence issues!

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Cardiology

Background:

• Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are increasing in India, with earlier onset and higher complication rates.
• Tertiary prevention, focusing on medication adherence, is vital for limiting disability and preventing complications.
• This study addresses medication and lifestyle adherence in elderly patients with diabetes and hypertension in rural Punjab.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the magnitude of medication adherence among elderly patients with diabetes and hypertension.
• To evaluate lifestyle adherence, including diet and physical activity, in the same patient group.
• To identify challenges and inform strategies for improving adherence in rural elderly populations.

Main Methods:

• A clinic-based study conducted in Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab.
• Inclusion of elderly patients with diabetes and hypertension receiving regular monitoring and free medication.
• Public Health Nurse-led counseling on diet, lifestyle, and medication regimen explanation in the local language.

Main Results:

• Nearly 70% of participants were over 50 years old; 60% were illiterate.
• High rates of tobacco and alcohol abstinence were observed.
• Insufficient physical activity (10.5%) and poor diet compliance (23.5%) were reported, with 46.15% missing medications, though 61.54% were confident in future adherence.

Conclusions:

• Existing national programs for NCDs emphasize early diagnosis and treatment.
• Low adherence to medication and lifestyle interventions necessitates innovative strategies for improved compliance.
• Urgent need to explore new approaches to enhance treatment outcomes for elderly NCD patients in rural settings.