Adherence to Medications among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Three Districts of Al Dakhliyah Governorate, Oman : A cross-sectional pilot study

Abstract

Objectives: This pilot study aimed to assess the medication adherence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in three wilayats(districts) of the Al Dakhliyah governorate, Oman, and to identify the probable reasons for medication non-adherence. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based pilot survey was conducted among T2DM Omani patients between February and June 2012 to assess their medication adherence and the relationship between their socio-demographic characteristics and adherence levels. Results: A total of 158 patients participated in the survey. The majority of the participants were unemployed or were housewives (66.5%). Forgetfulness was the most frequent reason for medication non-adherence (36.4%). Participants demonstrated an excellent level of adherence to their medicines (median total score = 3). No significant difference in median total adherence scores was observed based on the evaluated parameters. Conclusion: The medication adherence of T2DM patients in the area under study was good. A larger study in a wider population is warranted to obtain a more representative picture of this important factor which contributes to public health.