The therapeutic behaviour of patients with coronary heart disease from the perspective of their social characteristics

Abstract

The main issue for patients with chronic illnesses (CVD among them) is the long-term health management. A high level of adherence to prescribed treatment leads to a great therapeutic benefit, but many patients follow it to a small extent or do not follow it at all. The existing data on concrete adherence factors is controversial. The aim of the study consisted in investigating the social factors of adherence to treatment in patients with coronary heart disease. The patients (n = 103) were interviewed, examined and questionnaires received. It was found that patients' strong motivation to continue working related to self-realization and the presence of great interest in their job, as well as the presence of social support are factors which are significantly associated with higher adherence to treatment. Further comprehensive studies of adherence factors related to the patient are required.