Adherence to Antihypertensive Therapy: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Patients in the Republic of Kazakhstan

Background: Poor adherence to antihypertensive therapy is a major barrier to effective blood pressure control, particularly in countries with a high burden of non-communicable diseases. In Kazakhstan, improving adherence is a key objective of the "Densaulyk" State Health Program (2020-2025). Objective: To assess medication adherence among patients with arterial hypertension in Kazakhstan and identify associated socio-demographic and clinical factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among outpatient hypertensive patients at a major urban medical center. Adherence was measured using the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). Socio-demographic characteristics, disease duration, and the number of prescribed medications were analyzed in relation to adherence levels. Results: Adherence was significantly associated with age, ethnicity, education, marital and financial status, disease duration, and treatment complexity. A notable share of participants demonstrated low to moderate adherence. The use of self-reported data may have introduced bias. Conclusions: Medication adherence in Kazakhstan is influenced by multiple interrelated factors. Targeted and culturally appropriate interventions-such as simplified regimens, digital tools, and broader access to subsidized drugs-are essential to improve long-term outcomes in hypertension management.