A Comprehensive Study on Factors Leading to Nonadherence to Inhaler Therapy Among Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients in a Tertiary Care Setting

Authors

Shiv Kumar Verma, Departments of Respiratory Medicine and Tuberculosis and Chest Diseases, Rajarshi Dashrath Autonomous State Medical College, Ayodhya
Abhishek Chandra, Departments of Respiratory Medicine and Tuberculosis and Chest Diseases, Rajarshi Dashrath Autonomous State Medical College, Ayodhya
Manisha Das Gupta, Departments of Respiratory Medicine and Tuberculosis and Chest Diseases, Rajarshi Dashrath Autonomous State Medical College, Ayodhya
Manoj Kumar Panday, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shaikh-Ul-Hind Maulana Mahmood Hasan Medical College, SaharanpurFollow
Rinki Kumari, Department of Advanced Centre for Traditional and Genomic Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Medication adherence is crucial for managing respiratory diseases. Understanding the factors influencing adherence among patients with respiratory illnesses is essential for improving outcomes and optimizing treatment.

OBJECTIVE: This study explored the multifaceted factors influencing medication adherence among patients with respiratory illnesses, focusing on patient characteristics, clinical factors, beliefs about medications, and reasons for irregular medication use.

METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional design assessed medication adherence and beliefs in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients through questionnaires. Patient demographics and clinical characteristics were analyzed to understand their impact on adherence.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Medication adherence was measured using the Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale (ARMS). Descriptive statistics summarized patient demographics and clinical characteristics. Correlations between various factors and adherence levels were determined.

RESULTS: The study identified a middle-aged population with an average age of 48.5 years and a high smoking prevalence, aligning with COPD risk factors. Medication adherence scores indicated moderate levels (average ARMS score: 62.7), with significant individual variation. Financial burden was the primary barrier to adherence, with nearly 28% reporting cost-related nonadherence, particularly among lower socioeconomic status (SES) patients. Social stigma influenced adherence, especially in urban areas (19.8% reported stigma). Positive beliefs about medications correlated with better adherence. A confirmed COPD and asthma diagnosis and using specific inhaler devices (dry powder inhaler, PMDI with spacer) were linked to improved adherence.

CONCLUSION: Significant factors impacting medication adherence in COPD include financial constraints, social stigma, medication beliefs, and inhaler device type. Addressing these through cost-reduction strategies, stigma interventions, and educational programs can improve COPD management and outcomes, especially for older adults and lower SES populations.

Recommended Citation

Kumar Verma, Shiv; Chandra, Abhishek; Das Gupta, Manisha; Kumar Panday, Manoj; and Kumari, Rinki (2025) "A Comprehensive Study on Factors Leading to Nonadherence to Inhaler Therapy Among Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients in a Tertiary Care Setting," Indian Journal of Health Sciences and Biomedical Research KLEU: Vol. 18: Iss. 1, Article 6.
Available at: https://kleijhsbr.researchcommons.org/journal/vol18/iss1/6