Prevalence and predictors of medication adherence among adolescents and adults with asthma in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Objective

This review aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and predictors of medication adherence among adolescents and adults with asthma in Ethiopia.

Data sources

Primary studies were searched from PubMed, Scopus, HINARI, and Google Scholar from January 1, 2010 to December 10, 2023. In addition, we have used citation tracking.

Study selections

Observational studies (cross sectional, case control, and cohort) conducted among asthmatic patients ≥15 years old in Ethiopia, published in English language were included. After screening, the studies were assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool and data were extracted using a checklist. Heterogeneity was assessed using forest plot, Q-statistics and I².

Results

The review was performed among 13 institution-based studies with a total of 2901 participants with asthma. About 1058 participants had comorbid disease and 354 were cigarette smokers. The pooled prevalence of adherence to medications among patients with asthma was 40.50% (95% CI: 28.05, 52.96; p value < 0.001) with high heterogeneity (I² = 98.25%, p < 0.001). Getting health education about asthma and having comorbid disease were predictors of medication adherence among adolescents and adults with asthma in Ethiopia.

Conclusions

The pooled prevalence of medication adherence among adolescents and adults with asthma in Ethiopia is low and indicated that three out of five adolescents and adults with asthma were non-adherent to medications. This implies the Ministry of Health should develop different strategies to improve medication adherence including patient education and strengthening the health care system. Multicenter longitudinal studies should be further conducted by using objective methods of adherence measurement and large sample size.

Keywords:

• Prevalence
• adherence
• medication
• asthma
• Ethiopia

Disclosure statement

We have no conflicts of interest regarding this specific work.

Availability of data and materials

All data supporting the findings of this study are available within the article and its Supplementary Information (Additional file 1).

Additional information

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.