Medication Adherence in Cancer Patients: A Comprehensive Review
V. Reshma, Arun Mathew Chacko, Naseeha Haleema Abdulla, Maduram Annamalai, Venkataramana Kandi
Abstract
Cancer is a complex disease that can affect different parts of the body. The rates of cancer have shown an increasing trend in the past decade. A majority of cancers are detected late, therefore becoming untreatable and resulting in significant mortality. Additionally, the lack of awareness about cancers, their risk factors, diagnostic modalities, and preventive measures contributes to increased burden among people. Despite significant developments in the therapeutic and comprehensive management of cancers, the cause for concern is the lack of medication adherence. This is majorly attributed to the adverse effects of the medication, the cost of the drugs, and other reasons. This review comprehensively discusses various aspects of cancer medication adherence that include therapeutic modalities for treating cancers, factors influencing medication adherence, barriers, and facilitators to medication adherence.