Awareness and practical evaluation of correct use of iron chelators; a study to track the ambiguities of thalassemia patients on their medications in Iran

Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice toward iron chelating agents (ICAs) in Iranian thalassemia major patients. Methods A total of 101 patients with thalassemia major were involved in this cross-sectional survey. A deep medication review was done, and participants' knowledge, attitude, and practice were evaluated by a validated instrument based on a 20-scoring system. Results Statistical analyses showed 52 patients (51.5%) had a poor knowledge level (scores < 10) about their medications, 37 (36.6%) had a moderate level (scores 10-15), and 12 (11.9%) had a satisfactory level (scores > 15). Seventy-seven (76.2%) patients have positive beliefs regarding the dependence of their current health status on taking iron chelators, and 63 (62.4%) believed that they would become very ill without taking medication. The results also showed that the mean practice score in patients who received deferoxamine was 5.81 +/- 3.50; in the patients who received deferiprone and those who received deferasirox, the mean scores were 7.36 +/- 5.15 and 14.94 +/- 4.14. Also, the knowledge and practice level had a direct linear correlation based on the regression analyses (P < 0.001). Conclusion In conclusion, results of the present research suggests that the patients' knowledge about the administration, adverse events, and necessity of ICAs was not satisfactory. Improving the knowledge of thalassemia patients toward their medicines through educational interventions is highly recommended to improve their practice level.