The Impact of Inflation on Medication Adherence Among People Living with Dia-betes Mellitus Accessing Healthcare in a Tertiary Facility in Kwara State, Nigeria

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the most common non-communicable diseases globally, with significant impacts in the Sub-Saharan Africa. In Nigeria, DM is one of the leading causes of reduced life expectancy and quality of life, placing huge burdens on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. The global economy including that of Nigeria has faced a sharp rise in inflation particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. The inflation has driven up healthcare costs, negatively affected the social determinants of health, leading to higher out-of-pocket expenses, reduced access to needed care, and poorer health outcomes. Objective: This study assessed the impact of inflation on the care of patients living with DM, with a focus on medication adherence. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among patients with DM accessing healthcare in Ilorin, Kwara State, between March to May 2024. Data were collected from 211 patients, selected by systematic random sampling, using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 22.0, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Most of the respondents 199 (94.3%) reported they were experiencing rising diabetes medication costs, with 87 (41.2%) reducing their adherence and 34 (16.1%) discontinuing their medications. A significant association was found between rising drug costs and medication adherence (p <0.001), indicating that higher drug costs is linked to reduced adherence. Family donations 124 (58.8%), was the most common coping strategy, and those who had family support, demonstrated higher medication adherence levels (p-value = 0.01). Conclusion: The study revealed that inflation and the consequent rise in medication costs have a significant negative impact on diabetic patients’ care. Policy formulation to enhance healthcare accessibility like promoting health insurance will alleviate the burden of inflation, while also advocating for government subsidy on medications and social support programmes, not only for diabetic patients, but all patients with chronic medical conditions; ultimately improving overall access to care.