Factors associated with medication adherence among hypertensive patients in Namibia

Hypertension is a major public health concern, with non-adherence to treatment undermining disease management and control. In Namibia, little research exists on medication adherence among hypertensive patients, particularly in the Kavango East region, Namibia.

This study examined demographic, clinical, behavioural, and health system factors associated with medication adherence among hypertensive patients at a regional hospital in the Kavango East region, Namibia.

The study was conducted at the outpatient department of a regional hospital in north-eastern Namibia.

A quantitative, cross-sectional approach was used with 200 hypertensive patients selected through consecutive sampling. Data were collected by using a self-administered questionnaire and analysed with Chi-squared tests and logistic regression to assess associations with adherence.

Non-adherence to antihypertensive medications was common, with 62% (n = 124) reporting missed doses. Key reasons included forgetfulness (n = 112; 56%), side effects (n = 88; 44%), financial constraints (n = 74; 37%), transport barriers (n = 64; 32%), and poor knowledge (n = 52; 26%). Significant predictors of poor adherence included forgetfulness (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.39, p = 0.006), side effects (AOR = 0.42, p = 0.011), financial constraints (AOR = 0.40, p = 0.009), and transport difficulties (AOR = 0.44, p = 0.019). Employment (AOR = 0.52, p = 0.041) and living with hypertension for ≥ 5 years (AOR = 1.75, p = 0.047) were protective, while men were 1.48 times more likely to adhere than women.

Adherence to antihypertensive therapy is undermined by socioeconomic, behavioural, and health system barriers.

This study provides much-needed evidence on the determinants of medication adherence in Namibia. It offers guidance for public health strategies, community awareness, and improved hypertension management outcomes.