A Qualitative Approach to Barriers to Adherence to Therapy among the Chronically Ill in Guanajuato, Mexico

Abstract

Introduction: The epidemiological profile in Mexico is dominated by chronic degenerative diseases and injuries. These, in turn, are associated with current living conditions. PAHO and WHO recommend the study of barriers to quality care. Objective: The purpose of this research was to explore the perception of personal and social barriers to treatment for persons with chronic illnesses; namely, diabetes and hypertension. Materials and methods: This is a qualitative study with a descriptive component. The sample was comprised of dia- betics and hypertensive persons from low-income neighborhoods. Intentional sampling was used. The data were collected through semi- structured interviews that were audio-recorded. Work was done with three focus groups of three people each: 77 % were married, 77 % were illiterate, 77 % were homemakers, 56 % had type II diabetes, 22 % were hypertensive and 22 % were diabetics with hypertension. The perceived barriers revealed by the study include treatment-related beliefs, lack of knowledge and skill to pursue the recommended diet, dissatisfaction with the diet, lack of family support, economic hardship, lack of knowledge about the medication, indifference to exer- cise, and distrust and fear of laboratory exams. Conclusion: For Rosentock, whereas the keys to action encourage preventive activities with respect to health, the perceived barriers signal the path to action. Barriers must be overcome and the chronically ill must receive help to live with their conditions.