Ps-c16-2: assess the treatment adherence of antihypertensive medications during covid-19, a multicenter center study of pakistan

Objective: Important challenging factor for health care professionals is to ensure the treatment adherence of hypertension during COVID-19. To prevent the cardiovascular problems, adherence is one of essential parameter among the patients. The current study was designed to assess the treatment adherence of antihypertensive medications during COVID-19. Methodology: The descriptive, cross-sectional and multi-center study was conducted in 4 different clinical settings of two major cities of Sindh, Pakistan. The sampling method was systemic and patients were enrolled in the study from June to December 2021. Only those patients were selected who had confirmed diagnosis for hypertension and taken atleast one antihypertensive medications. A total of 1428 hypertensive patients were taken part in the study. Using self-administered adherence scale i.e. SDAS-14, the data were analyzed accordingly. Results: According to SDAS-14, the patients were categorized on score of adherence scale i.e. more than 10 means good adherence, 5–9 were medium adherent and less than 5 no or less adherent. Out of total 1428 patients, the average age was 58 years + 9 years. Majority were of male gender. Based on BP measurements and a series of questions were asked that showed low level of adherence were found during COVID-19. High educational level (OR 2.64, 95% CI 1.46–3.36) and ARBs treatment (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.61–0.91) were independent predictors of good adherence. Conclusion: The study reflects that during COVID-19 the level of adherence was low due to unavailability of medications and access to the health care professionals. More over the values of blood pressure was also not under control due to no exercise. The education is directly professional to the high level of adherence.