Incidence and predictive factors of non adherence to therapy in young adults attending a psycho social center in Milan: a retrospective observational “Real world” study

Abstract

IntroductionNon adherence to psychotropic drugs is associated with negative outcomes, including hospitalizations, aggressive behaviors, suicide attempts and increased premature mortality. It represents a psychiatric challenge, especially in young adults who show higher risk of non-adherence to treatmentObjectivesFirstly this study evaluates the incidence of non-adherence to therapy in 18-24 years patients from a Psycho-Social Center in Milan; and then to analyze the predictive factors of non-adherence.MethodsIn this retrospective “Real Life” observational study, 120 outpatients aged 18 to 24 years, from Psycho-social Center of L. Sacco University Hospital in Milan, were recruited in 2019. Non-adherence to treatment, according to the World Health Organization, was considered “a modality of assuming medications that does not correspond to healthcare professionals’ recommendations”. Statistical analysis were performed with chi-square, ANOVA and linear regression tests, setting significance to p<0.05.Results88 of 120 outpatients (73.3%) received an indication to psychopharmacological treatment. Of these, 23 (26.1%) did not show adherence to therapy. Results showed a positive association between non-adherence and increased hospitalizations (p