Patient Education and Health Literacy Effects on Statin Use and Adherence

Background: While the use of statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) plays a significant role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, it is estimated approximately 60% of patients who would benefit from a statin are receiving these medications. Current research suggests that a preference for life-style intervention over medical management, concern over medical adverse reactions, and a lower perceived risk of cardiovascular events is associated with statin non-adherence. Methods: An IRB-approved paper survey was administered to patients aged 18 to 89 at an ambulatory primary care clinic for non-acute visits. Qualtrics was utilized to collect, store, and process data. Information elicited from study participants included demographic information and cardiovascular history. Additional questions focused on patient education provided by a physician, and beliefs about cardiovascular disease. Information was submitted anonymously. Results: Nineteen (19) responses were analyzed. Participants included 7 males and 12 females, and reported age of participants ranged from 30 to 79. Data demonstrated that 6 participants were currently using statin medications, 11 participants were never prescribed a statin, and 2 participants declined or discontinued statin use. Data demonstrated that males more so than females more strongly agreed with “If someone needs to use a statin they have failed go make good choices” (p=0.06). Conclusion: Pilot study data collected did not capture enough participants who declined or stopped statin use to sufficiently examine how patient education might have influenced these choices. Data does suggest male participants have stronger beliefs regarding the effect of personal choice on health outcomes.