Adherence to pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of people with hypertension and diabetes mellitus

Adherence to non-pharmacological treatment

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to understand the determinants and conditions associated with adherence to treatment from the perspective of hypertensive and diabetic patients. Method: This is a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, with ten users attending at a Specialized Care Center for Diabetics and Hypertensives, in the city of Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Structured interviews were conducted with users between June and August 2022, analyzed using the Content Analysis method. Results: Among the main results to facilitate adherence were developing a habit for treatment, having a feeling of well-being when practicing non- pharmacological measures, seeking knowledge about the diseases, having family support, fearing the worsening of the disease, and living with close people with the same clinical condition. On the other hand, lack of knowledge about disease control measures, failures in communication between health professionals and patients, precarious financial conditions, denial regarding the diagnosis, and physical and cognitive limitations hindered adherence. Conclusion: Finally, the treatment of hypertension and diabetes can lead to changes in the dynamics of the health service and the patient’s daily routine, and it is fundamental to develop strategies that motivate the patient’s self- are, with the help of an interdisciplinary approach.