Assessment Of Knowledge And Adherence To Medication: A Mixed Methodology Study Among Patients With Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus In Penang
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Date
2011-07
Authors
Mohammed al-Qazaz, Harith Khalid
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
The prevalence of diabetes mellitus had increased tremendously among the
Malaysian population during the last decade. Furthermore, managing diabetes related
morbidity is always faced with challenges by the healthcare providers. In order to
provide optimal disease management, there is a need for diabetic patients to be
exposed to diabetes self management approach. Although numerous measures have
been taken to improve glycemic control among patients with diabetes in Malaysia,
the results are still unfavorable. Adherence to medications, level of knowledge of
patients’ and the perception they carry about diabetes has not been well documented
in developing countries. Most interventions attempted to improve medication
adherence and self-management practices were educational in context. These
interventions were based on the assumption that knowledge regarding diabetes might
affect patients’ awareness and influence their adherence to treatment regimen. Within
this context, limited studies have been conducted in Malaysia focusing on knowledge
towards diabetes and medication adherence. In addition, experiences and perceptions
of diabetic patients about the disease and its medications are not highlighted.
In order to explore and understand patients’ beliefs and experiences, qualitative
research methods found to be useful. It even enlightens the aspects of research which
quantitative research alone is unable to uncover, and to explain the complete scenario
in the research field. Therefore, this cross-sectional mixed methodology (qualitative
and quantitative study) principally aimed to evaluate patients’ knowledge about
diabetes as well as medication adherence and its association with glycemic control.
Description
Keywords
Assessment of knowledge , adherence to medication