Patient perceptions and adherence to hypertension management plans: A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Behavior

Background:

• Hypertension is a significant public health issue in Saudi Arabia.
• Poor medication adherence and self-care practices contribute to uncontrolled blood pressure and increased morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate medication adherence and self-care behaviors in Saudi hypertensive patients.
• To investigate the influence of patient perceptions (behavior, motivation, self-efficacy) on adherence.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving 408 hypertensive patients.
• Utilized Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) and Hypertension Self-Care Profile.
• Data analyzed using SPSS v29.

Main Results:

• 88.2% of participants reported low medication adherence.
• Females had higher self-care perceptions; males showed higher adherence (P=0.0088).
• Younger adults (18-29 years) demonstrated the lowest adherence and self-care scores.
• A significant negative correlation was observed between MMAS scores and self-efficacy (r=-0.251).

Conclusions:

• Patient perceptions, especially self-efficacy, are strongly linked to medication adherence.
• Culturally adapted behavioral interventions are crucial for enhancing hypertension management outcomes.