FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH LOW MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE
Abstract
Objective: This cross-sectional study aims to assess the prevalence of low medication adherence and identify factors associated with low adherence among patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CCAD). Methods: A total of 53 adults with established (CCAD) receiving at least two long-term cardioprotective medications (antiplatelets, statins, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors/ARBs) will be consecutively recruited from a cardiology department. Medication adherence will be evaluated using the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) and categorized as high, medium, or low adherence. Clinical (diagnosis, disease duration, comorbidities, number of medications), socio-demographic (age, sex, education), and selected psychosocial data (forgetfulness, cost concerns, beliefs about medicines) will be collected via structured interviews and medical record review. Logistic regression will be used to determine independent predictors of low adherence. Results: It is expected that a considerable proportion of patients will have medium or low adherence, with low adherence observed in roughly one-third of participants, consistent with previous cardiovascular studies. Factors such as lower education, higher pill burden, and negative beliefs about medications are anticipated to be significantly associated with low adherence. Conclusion: The study provided real-world data on determinants of low adherence in CCAD and inform targeted adherence-improving strategies in cardiology practice.
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