Enhance Treatment Adherence Research Articles

Effect of Self-efficacy-Based Training on Treatment Adherence of Patients with Heart Failure

Background: Enhancing treatment adherence is a crucial component of heart failure management. Training intervention programs focused on self-efficacy can play a significant role in improving treatment adherence, thereby reducing hospital readmissions and treatment costs for patients with heart failure. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of a self-efficacy-based training intervention program on treatment adherence among patients with heart failure admitted to teaching hospitals affiliated with Zahedan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This quasi-experimental study included 70 patients with heart failure admitted to the coronary care and cardiac intensive care units of Khatam Al-Anbia (PBUH) and Ali Ibne Abi Talib (PBUH) hospitals in 2021. Participants were selected through convenience sampling based on inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups using colored cards. Both groups filled out a demographic information questionnaire and the Treatment Adherence Scale at the beginning of the study. The intervention group participated in a self-efficacy-based training program for 45 minutes daily over four consecutive days. This program's content was reinforced through weekly phone calls to the intervention group patients for three months post-intervention. Conversely, the control group received standard ward education. The Treatment Adherence Scale was administered again to both groups three months after the intervention. Results: An independent samples t-test revealed no significant difference in mean treatment adherence scores between the intervention and control groups before the intervention (P = 0.28). However, there was a significant difference in mean treatment adherence scores post-intervention (P = 0.001). Conclusions: The self-efficacy-based training intervention program effectively improved treatment adherence among patients with heart failure. Therefore, developing and implementing such training interventions could significantly enhance treatment adherence at a minimal cost while maximizing patient participation.

CNP model intervention effect on acute urticaria patients' psychological status, compliance, and life quality.

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the clinical nursing pathway (CNP) on the psychological state, treatment adherence, and quality of life in patients with acute urticaria. A total of 240 patients diagnosed with acute urticaria at a tertiary hospital in Shandong Province were retrospectively assigned to either a control group, receiving standard care, or an intervention group, receiving care according to the CNP model. The primary outcomes assessed were levels of anxiety, depression, quality of life, and patient compliance. Statistical analyses were employed to evaluate the outcomes. Following the intervention, significant differences were observed in the anxiety and depression scores (P < .001), with the intervention group demonstrating lower levels of both. The control group's psychological state exhibited significant variance pre- and post-intervention (P < .001), alongside notably reduced overall compliance (P < .01). Post-intervention, patients in the intervention group showed enhanced treatment compliance, with a rapid increase within the first hour and a stable ascent over the following 10 hours, albeit with a marginally greater increase in the CNP group. Beyond 10 hours, the CNP group's compliance gradually declined, with a slight uptick in noncompliance rates. By 14 hours, the control group's overall compliance began to wane, with a sharp decline in full compliance and a rapid rise in noncompliance rates observed after 19 hours. At the 20-hour mark, the control group's noncompliance rate surpassed both the partial and full compliance rates. Conversely, post-20 hours, the CNP group maintained higher rates of full and partial compliance, with a lower noncompliance rate. No significant changes were noted in the control group's physiological or mental state, except in the domains of self-care and social ability, where notable differences were absent pre- and post-intervention. In contrast, the CNP group showed significant improvements in physiological and mental states, self-care, and social abilities post-intervention (P < .001), with noticeable differences in these domains evident 6 hours into the treatment (P < .01), leading to an enhanced quality of life. The CNP-based clinical nursing model intervention significantly benefits patients with acute urticaria by alleviating anxiety and depression, enhancing treatment adherence, and improving overall quality of life.

Mental Health May Affect the Health Outcomes of Cancer Patients

Cancer is a complex disease that can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. This paper examines the interplay between mental health and cancer outcomes, focusing on the impact of social networks, the patient-doctor relationship, and mental health professionals. Specifically, the positive effects of social support, including emotional, informational, and tangible support, on patients' coping strategies, treatment adherence, and overall well-being will be highlighted. This paper will also highlight negative social interactions and stigma, which can have adverse effects on patients’ mental health and physical outcomes. The patient-doctor relationship plays a vital role in patients' treatment experiences, with effective communication, shared decision-making, and empathy enhancing treatment adherence, psychological well-being, and overall outcomes. On the other hand, a strained relationship can lead to increased patient distress and dissatisfaction with care. The inclusion of mental health professionals in cancer care has shown promising results, with psychosocial interventions reducing depression, anxiety, and distress. Mental health professionals also assist patients in addressing treatment-related concerns and managing mental health disorders. Future directions in cancer treatment include adopting a biopsychosocial approach in cancer therapy, developing effective screening tools for mental health disorders, integrating mental health care into routine cancer treatment, and exploring the long-term effects of mental health on survivorship care. By understanding the complex relationship between mental health and cancer outcomes, healthcare providers can develop targeted interventions and support strategies to improve the overall well-being and outcomes of cancer patients.

Social determinants of health influencing the adherence to post-endoscopic mucosal resection surveillance

Background and Aims: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a global health challenge, particularly in Alabama, where the incidence rates exceed national averages. This study investigated the factors influencing adherence to post-endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) colonoscopies, focusing on travel distance and socioeconomic status. This study aimed to provide evidence-based insights to improve patient care in CRC management. MethodsThis retrospective study in a tertiary care referral center analyzed 465 patients who underwent EMR. The data included demographics, clinical details, and travel-related variables. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and spatial analysis were used to assess the factors affecting adherence. ResultsOf 465 patients, 36.6 % had adequate follow-up, 21.8 % had inadequate follow-up, and 41.6 % were lost to follow-up. Noteworthy demographic variations were observed, with median ages differing across adherence groups. Traveled distances showcased compelling insights, indicating a median distance of 22.2 miles for adequate follow-up, 15.7 miles for inadequate follow-up, and 31.6 miles for the lost-to-follow-up group (p<0.001). Longer travel distances were associated with better adherence. Longer travel distances from the hospital were associated with significantly lower odds of inadequate follow-up: 10–25 miles OR:0.29, 25–85 miles OR:0.35, and >80 miles OR:0.24 compared to the first quartile (<10 miles). Socioeconomic factors, particularly educational attainment, significantly influenced the follow-up rates. ConclusionsThis study revealed suboptimal post-EMR follow-up rates and underscored the impact of travel distance and socioeconomic factors. Targeted interventions addressing distance-related barriers can enhance treatment adherence and ensure timely CRC surveillance after EMR. Further research is needed in diverse healthcare settings.

Yoga as an Adjuvant with Multimodal Psychological Interventions for Excessive Use of Technology: A Randomized Controlled Trial from India.

Multimodal approach of psychotherapy has been found to be effective for managing the excessive use of technology. Yoga, a holistic mind-body therapy, has been observed to be a useful adjuvant in managing substance use disorders. Yoga is also known to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. The aim of this study was to examine whether yoga as an adjuvant treatment to psychotherapy is better than psychotherapy alone in reducing dysfunction and severity due to excessive technology use. A two-arm randomized controlled prospective study design was followed with assessor blinding and allocation concealment. Thirty consenting young adults (22 males), scoring above 36 on the Internet Addiction Test, were randomly allocated to either: Group A = psychotherapy + yoga or Group B = psychotherapy alone. Both groups received 8 sessions of psychotherapy in the 1st month. In addition, Group A received additional 10 sessions a specific yoga program (by trained professionals). After that, monthly booster sessions (supervised yoga sessions performed with direct one-on-one contact with the yoga therapist) were organized and post-assessment was conducted at 12 weeks. Each subject was assessed using the Internet Addiction Test-Short Form, Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Form, Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version, and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale at baseline and after 12 weeks. As compared to Group B, Group A had significantly reduced Internet use (F = 5.61, P = 0.02, ηp 2 = 0.17), smartphone use (F = 4.76, P = 0.03, ηp 2 = 0.15), psychological distress (F = 7.71, P = 0.01, ηp 2 = 0.22), and weekday use (Z = -2.0, P = 0.05, ηp 2 = 0.15) along with enhanced treatment adherence and retention. Yoga as an adjuvant therapy with multimodal psychological intervention for excessive use of technology was found to be effective. This carries clinical implications for mental health professionals.

Hydrogels: a promising therapeutic platform for inflammatory skin diseases treatment.

Inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, pose significant health challenges due to their long-lasting nature, potential for serious complications, and significant health risks, which requires treatments that are both effective and exhibit minimal side effects. Hydrogels offer an innovative solution due to their biocompatibility, tunability, controlled drug delivery capabilities, enhanced treatment adherence and minimized side effects risk. This review explores the mechanisms that guide the design of hydrogel therapeutic platforms from multiple perspectives, focusing on the components of hydrogels, their adjustable physical and chemical properties, and their interactions with cells and drugs to underscore their clinical potential. We also examine various therapeutic agents for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis that can be integrated into hydrogels, including traditional drugs, novel compounds targeting oxidative stress, small molecule drugs, biologics, and emerging therapies, offering insights into their mechanisms and advantages. Additionally, we review clinical trial data to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of hydrogel-based treatments in managing psoriasis and atopic dermatitis under complex disease conditions. Lastly, we discuss the current challenges and future opportunities for hydrogel therapeutics in treating psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, such as improving skin barrier penetration and developing multifunctional hydrogels, and highlight emerging opportunities to enhance long-term safety and stability.

The role of affective temperaments in self-care and medication adherence among individuals with bipolar disorder: a moderation analysis.

Affective temperament, defined as the fundamental predisposition from which normal affective states originate or as the constitutional core of personality, play a crucial role in mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorders. Understanding the relationship between temperaments, treatment adherence, and self-care is crucial for effective management and improved clinical results. This study aims to (1) assess the correlation between affective temperaments and treatment adherence, (2) investigate the relationship between affective temperaments and self-care abilities, (3) identify predictors of treatment adherence, and (4) explore the moderating effect of self-care on the relationship between treatment adherence and depressive temperament in individuals with bipolar disorder. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 231 individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder (BD) type I (N=160) and type II (N=71). The participants were evaluated using the following psychometric tools: Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, and San Diego (TEMPS) to assess affective temperaments, Personal and Social Performance Scale (PSP) to evaluate social functioning and self-care abilities, and Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) to measure treatment adherence. The study involved statistical analyses to examine correlations, identify predictors, and explore moderating effects. The findings revealed significant correlations between affective temperaments and both treatment adherence and self-care abilities. Specifically, hyperthymic temperament was positively associated with higher treatment adherence, whereas cyclothymic and depressive temperaments were linked to lower adherence. Self-care abilities were found to mediate the relationship between depressive temperament and treatment adherence, suggesting that improved self-care can enhance adherence in individuals with depressive temperament. Affective temperaments significantly influence treatment adherence and self-care abilities in individuals with bipolar disorder. The mediating role of self-care highlights the importance of developing targeted interventions to improve self-care practices, thereby enhancing treatment adherence and overall well-being. Personalized treatment strategies based on temperament assessments could lead to better clinical outcomes and quality of life for individuals with bipolar disorder.

Health literacy and adherence to care by people living with Human Immune Deficiency Virus (PLWHIV) in Nasarawa State

Background: Adherence to care among people living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLWHIV) has become a serious concern for healthcare practitioners. This study aimed to determine the health literacy (HL) and level of adherence to care among PLWHIV in Nasarawa State.Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 396 HIV patients accessing antiretroviral therapy in Nasarawa State from June to July 2023. Two pretested interview-administered questionnaires were used to collect data on HL and adherence to care. Data entry and analysis were done using IBM Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were used to describe respondent’s characteristics. Categorical variables were reported as frequencies and percentages. The association of HL domains with the level of adherence to care was determined using F-stat.Results: The dimensions of health literacy, including feeling understood and supported by healthcare providers, the ability to actively engage with healthcare providers, and navigating the healthcare system, were found to be significantly associated with the age of the respondents (p&lt; 0.05). High health literacy and a good level of adherence to care were found in 65.7% of the population. Adherence to care was significantly associated with HL, age, level of education, and marital status (p&lt; 0.05).Conclusion: The level of adherence to care by PLWHIV in Nasarawa State is significantly associated with HL. To enhance treatment adherence, healthcare professionals should boost the HL of PLWHIV in Nasarawa State by providing clearer and more accessible health information to patients during clinic visits.

Qualitative study of COVID-19 patient experiences with non-invasive ventilation and pronation: strategies to enhance treatment adherence

IntroductionNon-invasive ventilation (NIV) treatment combined with pronation in patients with COVID-19 respiratory failure has been shown to be effective in improving respiratory function and better patient outcomes. These patients may...

Drivers of Patient and Caregiver Preferences for Growth Hormone Deficiency Treatments in France: A Discrete Choice Experiment

Introduction: The aim of this study was to identify drivers of preference for growth hormone deficiency (GHD) treatment in French children, and their caregivers, and to quantify the relative importance of different aspects of treatment modalities using a discrete choice experiment (DCE). Materials and Methods: Attributes characterizing GHD treatment modalities were identified through a literature review, qualitative interviews, and focus groups with children, adolescents, and caregivers. A DCE questionnaire of 12 choice tasks was administered online to four groups of participants: autonomous adolescents (12–18 years), nonautonomous adolescent/caregiver dyads, caregivers of nonautonomous children (3–11 years), and autonomous children/caregiver dyads. The survey was pilot tested. A multinomial logit model with random effects was used to estimate preference weights for all attribute levels. Results: Frequency of administration, injection pain, dose setting, type of device, storage, and device reusability were selected as DCE attributes following the qualitative research phase and a pilot study. A total of 105 patients were represented in the DCE survey. Frequency of administration and injection pain were the attributes with the greatest influence on respondents’ preferences and had similar importance. Weekly administration was significantly preferred over daily administration by all groups of participants. Respondents’ choices were also significantly influenced by the type of device, dose setting, and device reusability. Conclusion: Children with GHD and their caregivers prefer a less frequent injection schedule and lower injection pain. Both aspects of treatment modalities are important to consider in treatment decisions to alleviate the daily burden for GHD patients and their families and potentially enhance treatment adherence.

Improving Adherence to Physical Therapy in the Development of Serious Games: Conceptual Framework Design Study.

Insufficient levels of treatment adherence can have adverse effects on the outcomes of physical rehabilitation. To address this issue, alternative approaches to traditional therapies, such as serious games, have been designed to enhance adherence. Nevertheless, there remain gaps in the development of serious games concerning the effective implementation of motivation, engagement, and the enhancement of treatment adherence. This study aims to design a conceptual framework for the development of serious games that incorporate essential adherence factors to enhance patient compliance with physical rehabilitation programs. We formulated a conceptual framework using iterative techniques inspired by a conceptual framework analysis. Initially, we conducted a comprehensive literature review, concentrating on the critical adherence factors in physical rehabilitation. Subsequently, we identified, categorized, integrated, and synthesized the concepts derived from the literature review to construct the conceptual framework. The framework resembles a road map, comprising 3 distinct phases. In the initial phase, the patient's characteristics are identified through an initial exploration. The second phase involves the development of a serious game, with a focus on enhancing treatment adherence by integrating the key adherence factors identified. The third phase revolves around the evaluation of the serious game. These phases are underpinned by 2 overarching themes, namely, a user-centered design and the GameFlow model. The conceptual framework offers a detailed, step-by-step guide for creating serious games that incorporate essential adherence factors, thereby contributing to improved adherence in the physical rehabilitation process. To establish its validity, further evaluations of this framework across various physical rehabilitation programs and user groups are necessary.

Acceptability, Appropriateness, and Feasibility of an Educational Program to Promote Treatment Adherence in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

The mortality rate due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has increased annually, and non-adherence to treatment is one reason for this rise. Developing intervention programs to enhance treatment adherence for people with COPD is essential. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to determine the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of such a program. We sought the opinions of 15 healthcare managers and 15 practicing nurses from three hospitals across Vietnam and conducted group discussions and interviews with 30 patients with COPD. We then formulated integrated conclusions on the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of the program. The overall average score of 12 items to test the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of the program from both healthcare managers and practicing nurses was high (M = 4.31; SD = 0.11) and (M = 4.37; SD = 0.12), respectively. Thirty COPD outpatients agreed the content and plan of the program were necessary for them to enhance their treatment adherence at home. The document content was appropriate, easy to understand, and the support and education provided by nurses was helpful. The educational intervention program to promote treatment adherence for patients with COPD was acceptable, appropriate, and feasible from the views of healthcare managers, nurses, and patients with COPD.

Effects of mHealth on kidney disease knowledge, stress management and adherence to treatment among hemodialysis patients in selected regions of Kenya

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global health issue, causing over 1.1 million deaths annually, with prevalence rates especially high in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite governmental efforts to provide hemodialysis treatment in places like Kenya, challenges such as late diagnoses, low public awareness, and a systemic shortage of healthcare workers persist. mHealth interventions, which have shown promise in over 30 low- and middle-income countries, offer a potential solution to enhance treatment adherence and improve self-care, although more research is needed to validate their efficacy compared to traditional educational methods. Methods: This quasi-experimental study assessed mHealth interventions on hemodialysis patients in Kenya, targeting knowledge, treatment adherence, and psychosocial support. 132 adults participated from April 2021 to January 2023. The treatment group got mobile messaging for nine months; controls didn't. Data, gathered via questionnaires, was analyzed with Open Data Kit and statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS), maintaining ethical standards. Results: The mHealth intervention study found no sociodemographic differences between groups, ensuring validity. Knowledge on kidney disease significantly increased in the intervention group by 68.6% compared to 2.3% in the control group. Medication adherence significantly improved (p&lt;0.001), as did hemodialysis session attendance. Dietary compliance rates equalized over time. Depression levels significantly improved in the intervention group (p=0.001), while initial anxiety favored the control group but worsened (p=0.006). Overall, the intervention was effective in improving knowledge, treatment adherence, and mental health. Conclusions: The study validated the effectiveness of mHealth in enhancing knowledge on kidney diseases, improving medication and treatment adherence, and reducing depression among hemodialysis patients.

Tackling steroid phobia: Insights from behavioural economics and psychological approaches

AbstractSteroid phobia, characterized by an irrational fear or avoidance of topical corticosteroids, poses a significant challenge to the effective treatment of various skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis. This issue has its roots in the introduction of topical corticosteroids in the 1950s and has been perpetuated by concerns regarding adverse effects and misinformation. International Dermatological Societies including the Japanese Dermatological Association have endeavored to address this problem by providing information and guidance to physicians and patients, resulting in a better understanding of appropriate steroid use and risk management. Despite these efforts, steroid phobia has not been fully resolved in the world, including in Japan.To shed light on potential solutions, this review explores the field of behavioral economics, which offers insights into human decision‐making processes and cognitive biases. Richard Thaler's concept of nudges emerges as a promising strategy for influencing patients' decision‐making regarding steroid treatments. However, the effectiveness of nudges may vary depending on the strength of an individual's concerns and fears. In cases where patients exhibit strong resistance to steroid use, alternative psychological techniques that establish trust and facilitate clear communication may be more beneficial.This review emphasizes the necessity of adopting a multifaceted approach that integrates principles from behavioral economics and employs complementary psychological strategies to address steroid phobia and enhance treatment adherence in affected patient populations. By combining these approaches, healthcare professionals can tackle the complex nature of steroid phobia and promote better treatment outcomes for patients with skin conditions.

The effect of early oral nutritional supplements on improving nutritional outcomes and radiation-induced oral mucositis for nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy.

To explore the value of early oral nutritional supplements (ONS) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). Patients with newly diagnosed II-IVA stage NPC were analyzed and divided into Early and Routine ONS groups according to whether they received early ONS at the beginning of CCRT. Changes in nutritional indicators, incidence of treatment-related toxicity, radiation interruption, and completion of CCRT were compared. In total, 161 patients with NPC were analyzed, including 72 in the Early ONS group and 89 in the Routine ONS group. Multivariate analysis showed that early ONS was an independent protective factor for concurrent chemotherapy ≥2 cycles, and a protective factor against ≥grade 3 radiation-induced oral mucositis (RIOM) and weight loss >5%. In stage III-IVA patients, early ONS was beneficial in decreasing the risk of severe malnutrition. Early ONS can improve nutritional outcomes, reduce RIOM, and enhance treatment adherence.

Insights into acne and the skin barrier: Optimizing treatment regimens with ceramide-containing skincare.

Acne is a common, complex, multifactorial inflammatory skin disease associated with epidermal barrier dysfunction. Beginning in childhood, acne affects many adolescents and adults. Acne is associated with lower self-esteem, anxiety, and depression and may cause scars and pigmentary sequelae. The review explores the relationships between acne and the skin barrier function and discusses nuances in the prevention, treatment, and maintenance of acne and its impact on the skin barrier. The advisors' previous publications addressed prescription and nonprescription pediatric acne treatment and skincare using cleansers, moisturizers, and a practical algorithm for treatment and maintenance, including skincare recommendations for pediatric acne patients and an algorithm for skin of color patients with acne. Before the meeting, literature was culled on the relationship between the skin barrier and acne and current best practices in acne, addressing prescription and nonprescription acne products and skincare as monotherapy, adjunctive, and maintenance treatment. After discussing 13 draft statements, the advisors applied the selected literature and drew from their clinical knowledge and experience, and agreed on five statements. The follicular epithelial barrier is directly involved with changes that occur during both comedogenesis and in stages of inflammation, especially with follicular rupture compromising the barrier's integrity. In acne-affected skin, sebaceous glands are larger, sebum excretion and filaggrin expression higher, and stratum corneum lipids are reduced. Educating patients and clinicians about inflammation's central role in acne and measures to reduce inflammation is essential. Skin irritation and xerosis from acne and treatments lead to poor treatment adherence. A skincare regimen should be included in the acne prevention, treatment, and maintenance care regimen and should be ongoing. Maintenance treatment with topical agents and skincare using gentle ceramide-containing cleansers and moisturizers is a recommended strategy after successfully controlling the disease. Epidermal barrier dysfunction contributes to acne exacerbation. Using the appropriate treatment and skincare helps to minimize irritation and inflammation, enhance treatment adherence, and improve patient outcomes.

Weight loss and side-effects of liraglutide and lixisenatide in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus

AimsGlucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) is used to treat obesity or type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). We compared weight loss and side-effects between patients with and without DM using GLP-1 RA. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study based on electronic medical records. Patients were categorized into three groups: liraglutide without DM (LiRa_NL), liraglutide with DM (LiRa_DM), and lixisenatide with DM (LiXi_DM). Six-month outcomes were evaluated for weight loss, side-effect types, and onset discontinuation of GLP-1 RA. ResultsWe enrolled 356 (190 LiRa_NL, 95 LiRa_DM, and 71 LiXi_DM) patients (women, 72.5 %; mean age, 43.7 ± 12.7 years; mean body mass index, 30.7 ± 5.2 kg/m2). The mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) participants were 7.7 ± 2.1 %. Average weight loss was 2.9 ± 0.3 kg. The change in HbA1c was lower in the LiXi_DM group than in the LiRa_DM group (− 1.1 ± 0.2 % vs. − 0.4 ± 0.1 %, P < 0.05). The LiRa_DM group showed a more effective weight loss (− 3.0 ± 0.4 kg) than the LiXi_DM group (− 0.9 ± 0.4 kg) (P < 0.05). Approximately 30 % of the patients reported experiencing side-effects, with gastrointestinal side-effects being the most frequent (20.5 %). The median side-effect onset was 1.9 ± 0.1 months from first treatment. The rate of GLP-1 RA discontinuation was 72.8 %. Discontinuation rates due to side-effects were 75.7 %, 68.9 %, and 64.4 % in the LiRa_NL, LiRa_DM, and LiXi_DM groups, respectively. ConclusionsThe LiRa_NL group showed the most weight loss, although the discontinuation rate was high. Most side-effects occurred at 1–2 months. When prescribing GLP-1 RA, education concerning side-effects and discontinuation is needed to enhance treatment adherence.

Improving Compliance with Medical Treatment Using Eye Drop Aids

Achieving optimal treatment outcomes in glaucoma requires patients to adhere to their medication regimens. Possible barriers to patients’ cooperation include the misunderstanding of a treatment’s importance or errors in applying instructions, forgetfulness, financial constraints and others. Due to the fact that glaucoma usually causes no apparent symptoms or pain, on the one hand, and the significant inconvenience that the eye drops used for glaucoma treatment can cause due to local irritation, on the other, patient compliance is a challenge. To address this challenge, we require strategies for improving adherence to glaucoma treatment. The importance of proper eye drop administration techniques cannot be overstated, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, the sick and the visually handicapped. Studies have shown that failure to comply with glaucoma treatment is a significant factor affecting disease progression, emphasizing the need for interventions that improve patient compliance. Educational interventions, medication reminders and the use of assistive devices such as eye drop aids have been shown to improve adherence to glaucoma treatment. By promoting strategies that can be used to enhance treatment adherence, healthcare providers can ensure that glaucoma patients receive the full benefits of their treatment plans, reducing the risk of disease progression. Many patients struggle with the complexity of their treatment regimens and the challenges of administering eye drops. This entry provides a comprehensive overview of the different barriers to patient adherence to glaucoma eye drop treatment, emphasizing the difficulties associated with eye drop instillation. This entry examines a range of eye drop aids available to patients, evaluating their modes of action, benefits, drawbacks and effectiveness in improving patient compliance. By providing detailed information on the barriers to adherence and the range of eye drop aids available, this entry aims to support healthcare providers in helping glaucoma patients to achieve better treatment adherence and outcomes.

Improvement of Patients’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Tuberculosis Treatment Using Video and Leaflet

Background: The effectiveness of Tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes for patients is currently suboptimal, posing a significant challenge to comprehensive efforts aimed at eradicating the disease. To address this problem, several studies have proposed that the implementation of health education initiatives have the potential to enhance treatment adherence and behavior of patients. Therefore, this study aims to assess the efficacy of health education programs using video and leaflet modalities.Method: This was a quasi-experimental study with a non-randomized pretest-posttest control group design. The sample population consisted of 85 TB patients at the Kenanga Health Center, Tegal Sari Mandala II, Medan Denai District, Medan City in 2022. Furthermore, the samples size was obtained using a purposive sampling method, involving 64 patients, which were evenly divided into two groups, namely intervention and control. The controls and intervention groups were educated using leaflet and video media, respectively. Pre-test and post-test were given to all the participants using the same instrument. A post-test was administered on the twenty-fifth day, where the materials were the same as those used at the pre-test stage. The data collected in this study were analyzed using the Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney, and N-Gain tests.Results: There were significant differences between knowledges, attitudes, and practices of the participants before and after being given the interventions. Furthermore, knowledges, attitudes, and practices scores increased after the interventions were administered. Based on the results, health education using video (N-Gain score of 76.82) improved behavior of TB patients compared to the use of leaflet (N-Gain score of 49.74). After being educated, people with TB were expected to exhibit higher treatment adherence and adoption of healthy lifestyles.

Effect of an educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior on improving medication adherence in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with injectable disease-modifying drugs: randomized controlled trial

BackgroundAdherence to prescribed treatment in chronic diseases, as occurs in multiple sclerosis (MS), is a critical factor for a successful therapeutic response. This study aimed to investigate the effect of educational program based on Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) on treatment adherence in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) receiving injectable immunomodulatory drugs.MethodsThe present study is an educational randomized controlled trial research that was conducted on 100 patients with MS who had gone to MS clinic in Tehran city (Iran). The samples were randomly assigned to the intervention (N = 50) and control groups (N = 50). Data collection instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire based on TPB. Then, educational program was performed for the intervention group through four educational sessions. After three months, data collection was repeated for the two groups and data were analyzed.ResultsThe knowledge and performance of the intervention group on treatment adherence drugs increased from 56.25 ± 20.3 to 78.31 ± 15.57 and 56.22 ± 5.76 to 71.62 ± 12.01 after the education respectively (p < 0.001). The mean of construct of TPB in the intervention group also increased after the intervention (p < 0.05).ConclusionApplying the TPB model proved is very effective in developing an educational program for patients with MS, to enhance treatment adherence drugs. Besides such programs, follow-up education for controlling and monitoring are highly recommended.Trial registrationThis trial has been registered at Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, IRCT20210808052109N1. Prospectively registered at 12-Aug-2021, (12/8/2021) available at: URL: https://en.irct.ir/trial/57994