Behavioral and Socioeconomic Determinants of Medication Adherence among Adults with Chronic Diseases in Osun State, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are major contributors to morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, with behavioural and socioeconomic factors influencing treatment outcomes. Medication adherence remains suboptimal in many low-resource settings. This study assessed the behavioural and socioeconomic determinants of medication adherence among adults with chronic diseases in Osun State, Nigeria. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults with chronic diseases during community medical outreaches in 2025. Data on socio-demographics, clinical characteristics, lifestyle behaviours, healthcare access, and medication adherence (using a 4-item self-reported questionnaire) were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression. RESULTS: Among 277 respondents, the mean age was 54.7±14.7 years, and 76.5% were female. Overall adherence was low, with only 38% classified as adherent. Socio-demographic factors were not significantly associated with adherence. Elevated blood sugar was associated with higher adherence (AOR = 5.363, 95% CI: 1.778-16.178), while lower meal frequency was associated with poorer adherence (AOR = 0.389, 95% CI: 0.181-0.837). Physical activity was also significantly associated with adherence. Cost was the most commonly reported barrier to healthcare access. CONCLUSION: Medication adherence among adults with chronic diseases in Osun State is low and is influenced mainly by behavioural and clinical factors rather than socio-demographic characteristics. Interventions should focus on lifestyle modification, patient education, and reducing financial barriers to care.