A cross-sectional observational study to evaluate awareness to drug treatment and adherence to statin and antiplatelet therapy in patients suffering from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

Context: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Statins and antiplatelet agents are crucial for their prevention, but poor awareness and adherence to them impacts outcomes. Aims: This study aims to evaluate awareness, adherence, and the effect of statin therapy on lipid profiles in ASCVD patients, along with adherence to antiplatelet therapy. Settings and Design: A cross sectional observational study was done in 300 ASCVD patients, divided into primary ( n = 118) and secondary ( n = 182) prevention groups. Methodology: Structured questionnaires assessed awareness and adherence to statin and antiplatelet therapy. Lipid profiles were measured before and after statin therapy. Informed consent was obtained from all participants in English, Hindi, and Marathi to ensure comprehension across languages. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis evaluated awareness, adherence, socioeconomic status (SES), and lipid outcomes. Results: Most patients were from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Awareness (42%) and adherence (70%) were higher in secondary prevention than in primary (33% and 50%). Statins significantly improved low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol and showed weak correlation of SES with adherence in secondary prevention group. SES showed weak correlation with adherence. Conclusions: Despite lipid improvement with statins, awareness and adherence to statin and antiplatelet therapy remain inadequate, highlighting the need for focused patient education.