Health Beliefs and Medication Adherence in Omanis With Hypertension

J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2018 Nov/Dec;33(6):518-526. doi: 10.1097/JCN.0000000000000511.

Abstract

Background: Patients' health beliefs are essential to improve medication adherence among patients with hypertension.

Objective: Our objective was to examine the relationship between (1) patients' beliefs about hypertension, medication, and self-efficacy and medication adherence and (2) medication adherence and blood pressure control in Oman.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 215 participants with hypertension. Participants completed 4 questionnaires (Arabic version) to measure medication adherence, beliefs about hypertension severity, beliefs about medication, and self-efficacy. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to conduct the analyses.

Results: Higher self-efficacy (odds ratio [OR], 2.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.54-4.37), stronger beliefs about medication necessity (OR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.21-3.23), increased age (OR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.03-1.10), and fewer medication concerns (OR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.20-0.57) were related to high medication adherence. Moreover, uncontrolled blood pressure was less likely in participants with high medication adherence (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.24-0.93).

Conclusions: Patients' beliefs are important consideration to improve medication adherence. Clinically, patients' beliefs should be assessed, and strategies to improve medication adherence should incorporate beliefs as a key component to improve antihypertensive medication adherence. Patient education and counseling regarding hypertension and necessity and side effects of medications are important to maximize positive beliefs and improve medication adherence.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Culture*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / drug therapy*
  • Male
  • Medication Adherence / statistics & numerical data*
  • Middle Aged
  • Oman
  • Self Efficacy*
  • Self Report
  • Young Adult