Systematic Review: Access to Nutraceuticals for Cardiovascular Diseases in Low-Middle-Income Countries

Abstract

It explores the challenges in accessing these nutraceuticals, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and outlines strategies to promote access from a health system perspective. Strategies to improve availability involve streamlining regulatory processes, ensuring timely approvals, and promoting research on the efficacy of nutraceuticals for CVD. The affordability of nutraceuticals emerges as a significant barrier, especially in cases where patients must pay out-of-pocket for medicines. Addressing affordability issues may involve implementing pricing strategies, subsidies, or insurance schemes to reduce the financial burden on patients. Strategies to improve accessibility could include expanding distribution channels, leveraging community health programs, and integrating nutraceuticals into existing healthcare services. The acceptability of nutraceuticals is influenced by factors such as cultural practices, awareness, and perceived efficacy. Promoting education and awareness campaigns could enhance acceptability. Integrating nutraceuticals into traditional medicine practices may also contribute to increased acceptability. The review emphasizes the importance of quality-assured approved nutraceuticals to guarantee their safety and efficacy. Strategies to address quality issues involve strengthening regulatory frameworks, conducting quality control assessments, and promoting adherence to quality standards. The potential benefits of fixed-dose combinations (FDC) in improving compliance and intermediate outcome measures such as blood pressure and cholesterol are as follows: Developing innovative formulations, such as FDC types of nutraceuticals, could enhance the effectiveness of these interventions. Monitoring progress at various levels is vital to identifying gaps in access and implementing appropriate policies. Improving access should involve collaboration between institutions, regions, nations, and international bodies.