Transplant discussion of adherence in a small renal population

Objectives: This study investigates adherence to medication among renal transplant recipients in relation to age, year of transplant, quality of life, locus of control and drug side-effects. Method: All patients attending a North East Renal Service, who underwent kidney transplantation between 1994 and 2000, were invited to take part. Of these, 122 (85%) agreed to participate. Demographic data was collected, and each participant completed a drug side-effects questionnaire, which included questions on adherence, MHLC Scale (form C), SF-36 and the Renal Service Satisfaction Questionnaire. Statistical analysis employed Chi-squared tests to compare participants' responses. Results: Sixty-two (52%) patients admitted to accidental and one (1%) to deliberate nonadherence to medication. There were no statistical differences between adherent and nonadherent patients in relation to year of transplant, quality of life, service satisfaction or drug side-effects. However, adherence increased with increasing age (p < 0.05), and those with high internal and external locus of control were more adherent than those with low internal and external locus of control respectively (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Adherence improves in adults with increasing age. Clear perception of locus of con trol improves adherence.