Acceptability of short message service (SMS) as a tool for malaria treatment adherence in the Brazilian Amazon: a qualitative study

Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2023 May 22:56:e06162022. doi: 10.1590/0037-8682-0616-2022. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

Background: Malaria is one of the leading causes of morbidity worldwide, and patient adherence to prescribed antimalarials is essential for effective treatment.

Methods: This cross-sectional study, with in-depth telephone interviews, analyzed participants' perceptions of short message service (SMS) in adherence to treatment.

Results: Five thematic categories emerged: decreased forgetfulness, the novelty of the tool, easy-to-understand language, the impact of SMS messages during treatment, and suggestions for improvement and complaints.

Conclusions: SMS could assist patients in adhering to prescribed antimalarials.

MeSH terms

  • Antimalarials*
  • Brazil
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Humans
  • Malaria*
  • Text Messaging*
  • Treatment Adherence and Compliance

Substances

  • Antimalarials