ASSESSMENT OF TREATMENT ADHERENCE IN ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

Objective: In Kazakhstan, mortality from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remains among the highest globally. However, early detection and effective dispensary monitoring of arterial hypertension (AH) in practice remain insufficient. Patient adherence to treatment is often difficult to predict, with significant influences stemming from factors such as education, socio-economic status, access to medications, and insufficient knowledge about AH prevention measures. Low adherence is one of the critical reasons for reduced treatment efficacy, diminished patient quality of life, increased healthcare costs, heightened risk of complications, and worsened disease and life prognosis. Objective: To assess treatment adherence in patients with arterial hypertension in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Design and method: The study used the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) to evaluate adherence among patients with AH. This questionnaire includes questions assessing whether patients skip medication doses when feeling well or unwell, forget to take their medication, or follow the recommended timing for drug intake. Each question offers a binary choice (yes/no). The survey was conducted in four regions of Kazakhstan: Astana, Semey, Taldykorgan, and Aktobe. Results: A total of 613 patients diagnosed with AH and under dispensary observation were surveyed, aged between 18 and 75 years, with a mean age of 61 years. Among men, 34.6% had higher education, 38.9% had specialized secondary education, and 26.6% had general secondary education. Among women, 37.8% had higher education, 33.1% had specialized secondary education, and 29.1% had general secondary education. High adherence was observed in 256 respondents, including 138 men (50.2%) and 121 women (35.5%). Moderate adherence was identified in 266 respondents, including 102 men (37.1%) and 164 women (48.1%). Low adherence was found in 91 patients, including 35 men (12.7%) and 56 women (16.4%). Conclusions: To enhance treatment adherence, patients must shift from passive participants to active and engaged individuals motivated to adopt lifestyle changes and consistently follow recommended therapy. It is also essential to educate healthcare providers on principles of preventive counseling and increase patient awareness about their condition.