Authors and affiliation (s):
Karthick Murugesan1, R. Dinesh Kumar1,*, Kavibharathi1, Jeevitha1, Arun Babu1, Shankar Dhandapani2
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, KMCH College of Pharmacy, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, INDIA.
2Department of Endocrinology, Kovai Medical Center and Hospital, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, INDIA.
ABSTRACT
Background: Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Assessing patients’ knowledge, attitudes, and medication adherence is essential for effective management. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months at a tertiary care hospital in South India. A total of 303 patients with MetS were evaluated using the SHIELD and MARS-5 questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Overall, 65.0% of patients demonstrated poor knowledge, while 57.4% had a moderate attitude toward MetS. Medication adherence was inadequate, with only 24.4% reporting good compliance. Rural patients showed relatively better knowledge and attitudes but lower adherence compared to urban patients. Conclusion: Patients with MetS exhibited inadequate knowledge, moderate attitudes, and poor medication adherence. Targeted educational strategies and adherence-focused interventions are urgently needed to improve disease management and outcomes.
Keywords: Metabolic Syndrome, Knowledge, Attitude, Medication Adherence, South India.