Compliance with medication among outpatients with uncontrolled hypertension in the Seychelles

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Rising rates of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases in developing countries necessitate improved antihypertensive medication compliance.
• Limited research exists on medication adherence in these regions.
• Understanding compliance is vital for effective public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the compliance rate of antihypertensive medication among patients with uncontrolled hypertension in the Seychelles.
• To identify factors influencing medication adherence in this population.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 187 patients with uncontrolled hypertension in the Seychelles.
• Biologic marker (riboflavin) presence in urine was used to assess medication compliance.
• Data collected on physician variation, patient literacy, medication composition (diuretics), and patient's ability to report daily pill intake.

Main Results:

• Overall compliance, indicated by positive urine riboflavin tests, was observed in 56% of patients.
• Compliance rates varied significantly between physicians (33% to 72%).
• Higher literacy levels (62% vs. 45%) and absence of diuretics in medication (66% vs. 45%) were associated with improved compliance.
• Accurate reporting of daily pill intake predicted compliance (62% vs. 31%).

Conclusions:

• Medication compliance among hypertensive patients in the Seychelles is suboptimal.
• Physician practices, patient literacy, medication regimen (diuretics), and patient understanding of dosage are key factors affecting compliance.
• Interventions should address these factors to improve hypertension management in developing countries.