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Optimizing drug adherence in hypertension: More than a mind game
Tom Robberechts1,2, Maria S Stoenoiu3, Michel Burnier4
1Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
Kardiologia Polska
|March 15, 2024
Summary
Poor adherence to blood pressure medication and lifestyle changes significantly impacts treatment outcomes worldwide. This review highlights psychological factors affecting patient and physician adherence, crucial for improving blood pressure control.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology and Public Health
- Focuses on the intersection of cardiovascular health management and population-level health behaviors.
Background:
- Poor adherence to antihypertensive medications and lifestyle recommendations is a primary driver of uncontrolled high blood pressure globally.
- Nonadherence rates vary widely, potentially affecting up to 40% of patients, yet often remain undiagnosed due to limited diagnostic tools for physicians.
Approach:
- This review provides a practical overview of 5 key aspects of medication and lifestyle nonadherence.
- Emphasizes the significant role of psychological factors from both patient and physician viewpoints in influencing adherence patterns.
Key Points:
- Psychological factors significantly influence patient adherence to prescribed treatments.
- Physician perspectives and their diagnostic limitations contribute to the challenge of addressing nonadherence.
- Understanding these psychological dynamics is vital for developing effective interventions.
Conclusions:
- Addressing nonadherence requires a deeper understanding of psychological influences on patient and physician behavior.
- Improved diagnostic tools and strategies focusing on psychological aspects are needed to enhance blood pressure control.
- Practical approaches are essential for overcoming barriers to medication and lifestyle adherence.
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