Living with chronic myelogenous leukemia in rural communities: Exploring factors related to tyrosine kinase inhibitors adherence with a mixed methods approach

Purpose

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) improve chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) outcomes dramatically. However, limited research exists on patient-specific, medical, and psychosocial factors influencing TKI adherence. The purpose of the study was to better understand TKI adherence among rural CML patients, using a convergent parallel mixed-method design guided by the Information Motivation and Behavioral Skills Model.

Methods

Survivors with CML participated in semistructured interviews and completed self-reported questionnaires, including demographics, perceived stress, side effects, emotional support, and self-efficacy for managing chronic conditions. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected concurrently, analyzed separately, and then integrated.

Results

Sixteen participants aged 26 to 76 years completed the study. The duration of TKI therapy ranged from 0 to 12 years (mean ± standard deviation, 5.56 ± 4.08). While all reported adherence to TKI therapy, 31% held misconceptions about treatment duration, and 38% misunderstood reasons for blood tests prior to treatment or TKI refilled. Qualitative data yielded five major themes with descriptions of the shock of diagnosis, educational experiences regarding CML and its treatment, challenges in managing side effects and refills, the importance of social support, and strategies for maintaining remission and motivating adherence to TKI.

Conclusions

This study describes the knowledge, motivations, challenges, and skills related to TKI adherence among rural patients with CML. A patient-centered approach is recommended for health care providers to improve adherence and enhance outcomes for CML patients on TKI therapy.