The Relationship between the Therapeutic Adherence and Quality of Life in Hypertension

Arterial hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and it is estimated that around 20% of the world population is affected. Treatment involves both intake of prescribed medicine and changes in patient’s lifestyle. Lack of adherence to treatment has been identified as a main factor in its maintenance. Although exact measurement of treatment adherence is difficult, it is reckoned that around half the patients are considered non-adherent. The present study’s aim was to evaluate the relationship between health related quality of life (HRQL) and treatment compliance in patients with a diagnosis of arterial hypertension. Sample was 127 subjects (94 feminine) undergoing treatment. The Short Form-36 Healthy Survey (SF-36), and the Treatment Adherence Questionnaire for cases of Arterial Hypertension (Cáceres, Arrivillaga, Correa, Holguín & Varela, 2006) were used. A statistically significant and positive correlation (p< 0.05) was found between all SF-36 scales and Treatment Adherence. Results propose treatment adherence as a fundamental component of hypertensive treatment, given that enhancement of patient’s subjective perception of their general health would positively reinforce medical treatment and compliance with healthy behavior.