The Impact of an Engagement Solution Incorporating Antihypertensive Medications, Engagement Tools, and a Digital Application on Adherence Among Hypertensive Patients: A Real-World Study

Background: Hypertension is the leading preventable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The lack of treatment adherence is one of the most important challenges in managing and controlling hypertension. It is unclear whether patient-focused strategies and training for doctors are associated with better adherence and control. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate treatment adherence among hypertensive patients by comparing a group of patients who were part of a patient support program (PSP) and were using the engagement solution (ES), i.e., antihypertensive medications, engagement tools, and the Elfie application. These patients were included in group A by trained physicians. Group B features patients who were also part of the program but were using only medications. Methods: This observational and retrospective study analyzed data from the PSP Sempre Cuidando (Laboratórios Servier do Brasil, Rio de Janeiro, BRA) and the Elfie app (Elfie, SGP), collected from across Brazil between November 2022 and October 2023. The population included hypertensive patients aged 18 years or older with arterial hypertension and possessing a medical prescription for antihypertensives referenced in the PSP. Results and conclusion: Patients were divided into two groups: 492 in group A and 984 in group B. The two groups were followed for six months. Group A demonstrated higher adherence to treatment, with an average treatment duration of 3.7 months compared to 2.7 months in group B, representing a 37% increase. Additionally, patients in group A showed statistically significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) after six months versus their baseline. Conclusions: The engagement solution was associated with higher levels of adherence and improved blood pressure control among hypertensive patients.