Identification of factors associated to adherence to an outpatient treatment program for alcoholics by means of logistic regression

Abstract

Adherence is a practical measure of treatment results assessment. This study aimed to identify patient’s characteristics associated to adherence to an outpatient treatment program for alcoholics. This study included 300 alcoholics that concluded the program´s assessment stage. Firstly, crosstabs were used to verify possible association of adherence to treatment to all other (more than 1,000) variables in the data bank, using Pearson´s Qui-square test (p < 0.1). Later, logistic regression was performed; initially within each dimension of characteristics, and then using the selected variables in a multidimensional model. In the final model, variables significantly associated to adherence were: stable matrimonial relationship; to perceive more than one Brazilian minimum wage; abdominal pain on the last 30 days before evaluation; to tremble if did not drink at regular timing; systolic blood pressure ≤ 130mmHg; solitary consumption. The identification of characteristics associated to greater adherence is expected to contribute to the development of strategies of care of patients that are usually poor responders to regular approaches. A focus on the changing or reinforcement of these characteristics may contribute to improve results in the treatment of alcoholics.

Key-words: Alcoholism; Evaluation,  Diagnosis