Therapeutic non-compliance among people with beta thalassemia in Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Thalassemias are genetic diseases, an inherited blood disorder which is characterized by a defect in the production of hemoglobin. These diseases result in a decrease in the quantity or size of red cells. There are two types: alpha and beta-thalassemia. The most severe forms are manifested by chronic anemia which can lead to death without proper treatment. Many research works recognize that therapeutic compliance, especially among people with chronic disease, is mandatory for better management of the disease. However, very few studies shed light on the impact of the latter on hemoglobinopathies. This article is a preliminary study which aims to identify the factors observed in patients with beta-thalassemia. Starting from a qualitative approach, nine people were subjected to semi-structured interviews on their experience and perception of the management of beta-thalassemia by the nursing staff. The results obtained made it possible to identify on the one hand three factors of non-compliance which are: the quality of the doctor-patient relationship, the chronicity of the disease and the reliability of care, and the interactions between these factors and the efficient management of their health.

Keywords: Beta-thalassemia, therapeutic noncompliance, therapeutic alliance, Côte d'Ivoire.