Gaps in patients’ knowledge of cholesterol lowering medication

January 01, 0001

Gaps in patients’ knowledge of cholesterol lowering medication

Despite evidence of the efficacy of cholesterol lowering medication, it is known there is suboptimal patient adherence to this medication. The aim of this study by researchers from Australia was to investigate patient knowledge, attitudes and experiences of their cholesterol lowering medication, and explore patient views regarding programs to support self management. It consisted of a semiqualitative exploratory study using semistructured telephone interviews of adult patients with poorly controlled hyperlipidaemia. Twenty-six patients were interviewed.

Most patients could name at least one risk factor for their hyperlipidaemia. Approximately one-third of patients reported they did not understand the reasons they were taking their cholesterol medication and over two-thirds did not understand how their medication worked. Most reported that their general practitioner was their main source of information about cholesterol. Many expressed a desire to be better informed about cholesterol, its risk factors and medication and that an information session at their local general practice clinic would be useful.

The researchers concluded: "This study provides preliminary evidence that patients on long term statin therapy may have gaps in their knowledge about their condition and treatment options and a desire to be better informed."

Although a small study, there is a lot of room for understanding, tolerance and improvement.

For the full abstract, click here.

Aust Fam Physician 40(7):519-522, July 2011   © The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
Cholesterol lowering medication - patients’ knowledge, attitudes and experiences. Angela Gialamas, Paul Aylward, Simon Vanlint MBBS and Nigel P Stocks. Correspondence to Angela Gialamas: [email protected]

Category: K. Circulatory, HSR. Health Services Research. Keywords: cholesterol, lowering, medication, knowledge, attitudes, experience, semiqualitative exploratory study, journal watch.
Synopsis edited by , Melbourne, Australia. Posted on Global Family Doctor 26 August 2011

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