The compliance of hypertensive patients to medication and it's effects on patients lives

ABSTRACTBACKGROUND: Hypertension is a risk factor cardiovascular disease. In management of hypertension, the crucial step is to begin the treatment and to assure compliance to treatment. The aim of this study is to assess demographic features of hypertensives, their compliance to treatment and labeling effect in relation to quality of life.METHODS: In this study, 200 hypertensives diagnosed at Adnan Menderes University Medical Faculty Family Medicine Department outpatient center between 1st of July 2006 and 30th of July 2007 were included. Demographic features, compliance to treatment and labeling effect were assessed by questionnaire, and a quality of life scale [(WHOQOL-Bref (TR)] was also administered. All patients were informed about hypertension. After two months, compliance to treatment was assessed by a questionnaire. Patients were grouped as compliant and non-compliant. Chi square test, Fisher's exact test, one way ANOVA and linear regression were used for statistical analysis.RESULTS: 156 (78%) were compliant and 44 (22%) were noncompliant. Being improperly informed by the pysician and being asymptomatic were the two most commonly encountered reasons of non compliance. As labeling effect, thoughts of being accused for his illness and changes in behaviour of people around were more common in noncompliant patients. Mental scores were higher in compliant patients.CONCLUSION: To inform patients as part of patient education by the physician has a positive effect on compliance to treatment. Reliable relationship between patient and physician would have a positive impact on constructing and permanence of compliance to treatment.Key Words: Hypertension, treatment, adaptation, quality of life