Factors Influencing Management of Non-Communicable Diseases among Patients Under Therapeutic Care Within Hospitals in the Techiman Municipality.

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes are on the rise in Ghana, particularly in Techiman Municipality. Despite therapeutic interventions, patients often struggle with adherence, influenced by socio-demographic, social, and health system factors. This study examined the factors influencing the management of non-communicable diseases among patients under therapeutic care within hospitals in the Techiman Municipality, Ghana. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 267 patients receiving therapeutic care in five selected hospitals. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used to determine associations between demographic, social, and health system factors and NCD management. Ethical clearance was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Most respondents were female (61.8%) and aged 61–75 years (38.6%). While over 90% found medication instructions easy to follow, only 20.2% adhered to a low-salt diet. Adherence was significantly associated with age, gender, and education. For instance, older patients (61–75 years) were 22 times more likely to adhere to medications [AOR=22.29, p=0.005]. Family support, stigma, and peer influence also significantly affected adherence. Additionally, health system factors such as health education (χ²=10.5, p=0.001) and accessibility of care (χ²=13.4, p=0.000) had strong associations with NCD management. Patients who received health education were nearly 4 times more likely to adhere to treatment [AOR=3.7, p=0.004]. Inconclusion, therapeutic management of NCDs in Techiman is shaped by demographic characteristics, social influences, and the strength of the health system. Despite high medication use, lifestyle adherence remains low. To enhance NCD management, the study recommends improving patient education, strengthening family and social support systems, and increasing access to affordable healthcare services tailored to patient demographics and needs.