Factors that Influence South Asian Cardiac Patients’ Medication Adherence
Date
2013-06-14
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Abstract
South Asians experience high rates of cardiovascular disease. Medications are a major
component of chronic disease management. A systematic literature review revealed factors that
contributed to medication non-adherence with South Asians. Content analysis strategies were
used for the synthesis. Thirteen papers were in the final set with medication side-effects, cost,
forgetfulness and language barriers contributing to non-adherence. Inconsistent methodologies
and scant information on immigrant factors within the Canadian context led to further
exploration.
An ethnographic study was conducted between January to September 2012. Observations and
interviews were conducted with South Asian cardiac patients, as well as physicians, pharmacists
and staff. Fieldnote and interview data were transcribed and analyzed using ethnographic
domains and cultural themes. South Asian cardiac patients relied on family members for
instrumental support. Medication adherence was enhanced when relationships with healthcare
professionals demonstrated clear communication and cultural awareness. Memory mechanisms
need to be individualized and were generally ‘low technology’.
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Nursing
Citation
Ens, T. (2013). Factors that Influence South Asian Cardiac Patients’ Medication Adherence (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/26155