Medication Adherence in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Comprehensive Qualitative Meta-Synthesis of Factors in the MENA Region

Medication adherence is a critical factor in the management of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) and plays a vital role in slowing disease progression, preventing complications and improving health outcomes. This study fills this gap by systematically integrating findings from qualitative studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multilevel determinants of adherence unique to the MENA sociocultural context. A metasynthesis was conducted using a thematic synthesis approach, incorporating data from nine qualitative studies. The search was limited to research articles published in English between 2014 and 2024. The metasynthesis identified four key themes: (1) personal factors and perceptions related to the disease and medications are fundamental to adherence, (2) healthcare provider attitudes and practices can improve adherence to medications, (3) the healthcare system is a key factor for optimal adherence, and (4) sociocultural, alternative medicine, and religious practices affect adherence in the MENA region. Medication adherence among adults with T2D in the MENA region is influenced by factors related to the individual patients, healthcare providers, healthcare system, and sociocultural practices. There is a need for more qualitative studies to address existing knowledge gaps about the agency of the above factors in regard to initiation and control of actions that lead to medication adherence.