Clinic Attendance Compliance Pattern of Adult Hypertensive Nigerians Seen at UNTH, Enugu

Abstract

Objective: A number of factors affect the clinic attendance compliance of the average adult Nigerian. The consequent default from treatment could affect the management outcome of such patients. This study was therefore, undertaken to evaluate the clinic attendance compliance pattern of adult hypertensive patients being seen at the UNTH Enugu, and the factors affecting this. Method: Records of consecutive adult hypertensive patients attending the Cardiac Clinics of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, in a total study period from 1989 to 1999 were retrospectively studied. Data were collected from patients' case records using a proforma that had been specifically designed for the study. Results: Four hundred and ten patients were reviewed. Forty percent of the patients had already defaulted by the 3rd visit. The default rate was significantly affected by the number of antihypertensive drugs the patients were taking ( P < 0.0001). The 41 – 60 year age groups accounted for the greatest default rates. Conclusion: This study shows a high default rate at clinic attendance. Age, severity of hypertension at first visit and the number of antihypertensive drugs appear to affect the clinic compliance pattern. Efforts should be geared at addressing these factors in the bid to ensure a better management outcome for hypertensive patients. Key Words: Clinic Compliance, Adult Hypertensive Nigerians Orient Journal of Medicine Vol.15(3&4) 2003: 1-7