Insights into medication adherence among Jordanian patients with dyslipidemia: evaluating health literacy, well-being, and doctor-patient communication.

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess medication adherence among Jordanian patients with dyslipidemia and evaluate the impact of health literacy, well-being, and doctor-patient communication on adherence in this population. Dyslipidemia is a prevalent condition that significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and understanding the factors influencing medication adherence is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

METHODS

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted from March to July 2023. A convenience sample of adult Jordanians diagnosed with dyslipidemia was surveyed in a tertiary hospital using validated scales: the Lebanese Medication Adherence Scale-14 (LMAS-14), the Doctor-Patient Communication Scale (DPC), the WHO well-being index, and the health literacy scale. Bivariate analysis and linear regression models were employed to analyze associations.

RESULTS

Among 410 participants (mean age 58.62 ± 12.11 years), the mean scores were LMAS-14 (35.10), DPC (55.77), WHO well-being (47.53), and health literacy (38.96). Higher medication adherence was associated with older age ( = 0.093,  = 0.049), university education ( = 2.872,  = 0.017), prior surgery ( = 2.317,  = 0.021), medium income level ( = 3.605,  = 0.006), and better doctor-patient communication ( = 0.166,  = 0.003). Conversely, cigarette smoking ( = -3.854,  = 0.001) and health insurance ( = -2.146,  = 0.039) were linked to lower adherence.

CONCLUSION

The findings underscore the substantial interplay of socio-demographic and clinical factors affecting medication adherence. Enhanced public health interventions focusing on improving health literacy, communication quality, and addressing socio-economic conditions are vital for better adherence and patient outcomes in Jordan.