Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical (May 2023)

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

  • Sheila Rodovalho,
  • Ádila Liliane Barros Dias,
  • Maria Paz Ade,
  • Diego Macias Saint-Gerons,
  • Jose Luis Castro,
  • Andrea Beratarrechea,
  • Felipe Leão Gomes Murta,
  • Alicia Cacau Patrine dos Santos,
  • Leonardo Lincoln Gomes Marques,
  • Vanderson Souza Sampaio,
  • Djane Clarys Baia-da-Silva,
  • Wuelton Marcelo Monteiro

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1590/0037-8682-0616-2022
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 56

Abstract

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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.

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