Non-compliance to iron chelation therapy in patients with transfusion-dependent thalassaemia

Aim To determine the proportion of non-compliance to iron chelation therapy (ICT) and its associated factors amongst patients with transfusion-dependent thalassaemia (TDT) in Malaysia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted amongst patients with TDT aged 9 years old and above, who were on iron chelation treatment, attending three tertiary hospitals in Kelantan and Terengganu. The socio-demographic, clinical and chelator history of patients were obtained. The compliance of patients to chelators was assessed using the Medication Compliance Questionnaire (MCQ). Social support was assessed using the Medical Outcome Study–Social Support Survey (MOS). Data was analysed using simple and multiple logistic regression. Results The proportion of non-compliance to ICT was 24.7%. Age, activity restriction and latest serum ferritin level of ≥1000 μg/L were significantly associated with non-compliance to ICT. Conclusion The non-compliance to ICT amongst patients with TDT in Kelantan and Terengganu is 24.7%. Providing motivational interview, enhanced self-empowerment of patients and psychological support are recommended to improve the non-compliance aspect amongst patients on ICT.