Factors Related to the Compliance of Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopausal Women

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most effective treatment for climacteric symptoms. It also has definitive role in reducing or preventing the risk of osteoporosis. However, compliance with HRT is very poor. This study was conducted to know the compliance of hormone replacement therapy and investigate the determining factors for compliance. METHODS: Review of charts and telephone questionnaires were completed among 107 women who had received HRT in a family medicine clinic at a university hospital. Compliance was determined by the medication availability ratio (MAR) (HRT treated days)/(total number of observed days). An individual with MAR less than 0.75 was considered as partial compliance, and more than 0.75 was considered as complete compliance group. RESULTS: The average age of 107 subjects was 57.4 years. Among the 107 study subjects, 59 persons (55.1%) were compliant with HRT. Mean observation period was 17.6 months. The compliance with HRT was 60.9%, 55.1%, 49.6% at 12, 24, 36 months, respectively. The compliance was higher in high-perception group compared to low- perception group (P=0.01). Education level, presence of osteoporosis, hysterectomised state, difference in doctor and past fracture history were not associated with compliance. The reasons for starting HRT were physician's recommendation, osteoporosis prevention, treatment of menopausal symptoms, and influence of mass media, in descending order. CONCLUSION: The compliance with HRT was 61% at one- year treatment and 50% at three-year teatment period. Positive attitude for HRT was related to higher compliance with HRT. Patient education on HRT is essential for successful compliance of HRT.