Drug Adherence and Status of Blood Pressure Control among Hypertensive Patients

Background: Hypertension is a major public health concern world-wide. WHO reports (2008) that approximately 40% of adults aged ? 25 years have been diagnosed with hypertension with increased deaths from heart diseases and stroke. Objectives: To estimate the level of drug adherence, identify factors affecting drug adherence and determine blood pressure control among hypertensive patients. Methods: Quantitative approach with prospective study design was used to study 75 hypertensive patients in Vellore, South India using consecutive sampling technique. Drug adherence was checked using Medication Adherence Scale [MAS] and Pill Count. BP control was determined by analyzing six blood pressure readings. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: 66.7% of the subjects were adherent by MAS and only 38.7% by Pill Count. Blood Pressure was well-controlled in 97.0% of those who were adherent by pill count. The main factors affecting drug adherence were forgetfulness and daily work routines. Conclusion: Innovative strategies to promote drug adherence among patients with long term medications are to be implemented by health workers.