Abstract:
Introduction: Medication non-adherence remains a major public health concern and a key driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Cameroon. Poor adherence contributes to treatment failure, increased morbidity, and the development of drug-resistant infections. Cameroon faces a critical "dual burden" of health challenges: a rise in chronic non-communicable diseases and a burgeoning crisis of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Sub-optimal medication adherence is a primary driver for both. In urban hubs like Douala and Yaoundé, nearly 55% of patients discontinue therapy prematurely. Specifically for antibiotics, partial dosing leads to sub-therapeutic drug concentrations, creating a mutant selection window that fuels the spread of resistant pathogens. This growing threat is linked to rising treatment failures and increased healthcare costs. Mobile health (mHealth) technologies have emerged as potential tools to improve medication adherence, but their effectiveness is often limited by infrastructural and socioeconomic barriers.
Objective: To assess the role of mHealth and emerging digital pharmacy support systems in improving medication adherence and mitigating antimicrobial resistance in Cameroon.
Materials and Methods: This study will employ a narrative review and conceptual framework approach is used, drawing on evidence from low- and middle-income countries. The study examines multiple digital health interventions, barriers to medication adherence and explores the application of digital interventions, including SMS reminders, mobile applications, telepharmacy, and electronic follow-up systems. While also evaluating contextual factors influencing adoption such as digital literacy, network availability, and healthcare system integration.
Expected Results: MHealth interventions are expected to improve medication adherence by enhancing patient reminders, supporting treatment continuity, and improving communication between patients and healthcare providers. These improvements may indirectly reduce inappropriate antibiotic use and contribute to slowing the progression of Antimicrobial Resistance. However, disparities in digital access and limited health system integration may affect scalability and long-term sustainability.
Conclusion: Digital pharmacy support systems offer a promising, scalable, and context-adapted approach to improving medication adherence in Cameroon. A combination of SMS, USSD, mobile applications, and telehealth services may provide inclusive solutions across different population groups. Strengthening digital infrastructure, health system integration, and patient education will be essential to maximize impact on adherence and antimicrobial resistance.
Keywords: mHealth, Medication Adherence, Antimicrobial Resistance, Digital Pharmacy, Cameroon
Biography:
Ngalle Ngalle Daryl Perlse is a Cameroonian-based Pharmacy Technician, and Pharmaceutical Sciences graduate. She is an innovative healthcare enthusiast, who has done multiple internship and volunteering programs, in both community and hospital pharmacies, gaining hands-on experience in patient care, dispensing, and pharmaceutical services. She has a strong desire to improve African healthcare systems, especially by using digital health technologies, to improve patient outcomes. Beyond schooling, she works as a sales representative and quality control officer at Divine Favour SARL, an agro/food processing firm, functioning in Cameroon. Her long-term goal is to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery between Africa and global systems through innovation, education, and clinical excellence. Also, she intends to further her education and seeks a career in advanced pharmaceutical practice, with a focus on substantial healthcare innovation. Perlse represents a new generation of African healthcare professionals committed to impact, innovation, and service.
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