Missed a dose? It could cost more than they think

Missed a dose? It could cost more than they think

We all did it – skipped a dose or gave up a treatment plan for work, movement or a large event. However, this apparently harmless habit drives a global health crisis. The World Adherence Day, who debuts on March 27, 2025, is here to change the relatives of the health professions and patients to adhere to treatment plans – a critical but often overlooked factor for global health.

This year’s campaign, #dontmisamoment, is forced to deteriorate in the devastating effects of non -compliance, from the deterioration in health results to avoidable hospital stays and high health costs. This global movement is supported by the World Heart Federation (WHF) and aims to promote awareness and actions in the entire medical community.

The mission

  • Educate Patients, supervisors and medical specialists on compliance.
  • Encourage Open discussions between doctors and patients about treatment plans.
  • Engage Communities through workshops, social media campaigns and public work events.
  • advocate For guidelines that improve access to medication and adherence support systems.

Why compliance is important

Unconf usable diseases (NCDs) accounts for around 75% of the deaths worldwide and correspond to at least 43 million per year. In South Africa, the prevalence of NCDS has increased significantly. Between 1997 and 2018, deaths from large NCDs – including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic diseases of the lower airways – rose by 58.7%. Hypertension is particularly widespread and will be around 4.74 million South Africans from 2019. In addition, 17.8% of the population lives with HIV/AIDS.

Compliance with the prescribed medication, changes in lifestyle and regular medical visits is crucial for the treatment of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. A poor compliance increases mortality rates and health costs. However, only 50% of patients in countries with high incomes adhere to chronic diseases that have even lower installments in developing countries.

“This leads to avoidable complications, hospital stays and a reduced quality of life for millions worldwide,” says Virosha Deonarain, head of medical affairs at Pharmaceutical Company, Servier Southern and East Africa. “The improvement of adherence could significantly reduce the long -term mortality risk.”

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The role of health service providers

Even with available life -saving treatments, many patients are exposed to barriers such as treatment fatigue, financial restrictions and fear of side effects. If health service providers actively involve and ask the right questions, you can significantly increase the adherence rates.

In addition to patient training, medical specialists have to work for guidelines that improve access to essential medication and promote better health.

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Patients allow themselves to take care of their health

Takeover of your health begins to ask the right questions:

  • What is this medication for and how does it benefit me?
  • What changes in nutrition or lifestyle should I make?
  • How do these changes support my treatment plan?
  • How often should I go on to my doctor?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?

“If we all work together, we can make sure that compliance is a common responsibility, no burden,” says Dr. Martin Mpe, President of the SA Heart Association. “Through today’s measure, medical specialists and patients can ensure that nobody misses a moment due to avoidable health problems.”

Show your support for the World Healing Day 2025 by committed to better compliance with the treatments. #Dontmisamoment

Information and references with the kind permission of servant.