Patient non-compliance in rheumatoid arthritis: the degree, frequency, types and correlations

Abstract

Aim. To assess the degree of non-compliance (NC) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as well as N С frequency, types, correlations. Material and methods. 34 patients with RA (the study group) and 21 patients with osteoarthrosis (the control group) have filled in an original questionnaire developed by the authors. The analysis was made of correlations between N С degree and clinico-laboratory, social-demographic and psychopath- ological factors. Results. The degree of NC (general and type-specific) and its frequency appeared to be significantly higher in the group of RA patients. Significant positive correlations were found between the degree of NC and hormone dependence, functional decline of the joint, presence of organic and adaptation mental disorders. Conclusion. A high degree of RA patient NC with medical recommendations dictates the necessity of psychocorrective measures for such patients.

Keywords

• non-compliance
• rheumatoid arthritis
• osteoarthrosis