Understanding the barriers to adherence to antihypertensive medication in Darbhanga, Srinagar- A qualitative study

Introduction: Hypertension is a serious medical condition that significantly increases the risks of kidney, heart, brain, and other diseases. Although there is availability of different types of medications for the treatment of hypertension whose efficiency has been proven, the reported levels of blood pressure control are very disappointing. The main reason is noncompliance of hypertensive patients with their regular medications. The present study was conducted to identify the barrriers to medication adherence among hypertensive patients living in the Darbagh area of Srinagar. Material and Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted among hypertensive patients residing in the Darbagh area of Srinagar and who visited the outpatient department of the health center in Darbagh during January 2021–March 2021. In-depth interviews were conducted with each study participant. A total of 40 interviews were conducted. The content analysis technique was used for data analysis. Results: After study and separation of basic concepts, primary codes were extracted from interviews, and thereafter, subthemes or subcategories were derived. The subthemes included economic problems, patient’s attitude toward hypertension, and patient’s environment. Conclusion: The present study underscores the influence of socioeconomic status, forgetfulness, patient perceptions and attitudes toward hypertension, as well as environmental factors, on treatment compliance among individuals with hypertension. These findings can be used for planning intervention techniques to overcome these barriers.