Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are now the leading cause of death in Solomon Islands, according to ground-breaking research conducted by Solomon Islands Nation University (SINU) educator, researcher and ex-NCD clinical nurse, Mrs. Marineth Magi.
Her study, titled “Factors Affecting Treatment Adherence among Hypertensive Patients in the Solomon Islands,” was carried out at the National Referral Hospital in Honiara.
The findings were presented fortnight ago during the Family Farming, Lifestyle, and Health (FALAH) Seminar at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU).
Ms Magi explained that hypertension, a major NCD, is a key contributor to cardiovascular diseases—the primary cause of death in the country.
“The World Health Organization defines treatment adherence as following medical advice, particularly in medication use. In Solomon Islands, there’s limited data on why patients struggle to adhere to antihypertensive treatments.
“Poorly controlled hypertension leads to severe complications, and medication non-adherence worsens the problem,” she said.
Ms Magi said this study was aimed at identifying the barriers preventing hypertensive patients at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) from sticking to their prescribed treatments.
Despite geographical challenges affecting healthcare access, Magi noted that health services remain free unless patients opt for private clinics.
Statistics reveal alarming trends:
– 41% of patients seen in Solomon Islands healthcare facilities suffer from NCDs.
– 19.8% of the population has been diagnosed with high blood pressure and is on medication.
– 69% of deaths are NCD-related, with 30% attributed to cardiovascular diseases.
– In 2017, the government allocated $3.5 million for NCD medications, with $81,000 dedicated to cardiovascular treatments alone.
The study, based on face-to-face interviews (conducted in Pidgin and later translated into English), analysed responses from patients aged 41–70, with the majority (47%) between 61–70 years old. More women than men participated.
Major factors affecting medication adherence were identified: reliance on herbal medicine, negative attitudes toward treatment, forgetfulness and alcohol consumption.
Forgetfulness emerged as the most significant issue, with 70-80% of participants admitting they often missed their daily medication.
“This is a serious concern,” Magi stressed.
“Consistent medication is crucial to reducing NCD-related deaths. Knowledge is power—patients must understand the importance of adherence,” she added.
By LACHLAN SHYVES EDDIE
Solomon Star, Honiara
