[Significance of patient adherence in cardiovascular therapy]

The appropriate cooperation of patients is very important during therapy. The term of compliance used earlier for the definition of patient´s cooperation refers to a sub- or over-ordination of the relationship betwees physicians and patients. Nowadays the term of adherence is used, which suggests a higher level of patient cooperation because it assumes an active contribution of the patient. The adherence of patients to cardiocascular medical therapy in developed countries is just 50%, and this indicates that half of the patients do not take the prescribed medication. Because of the lack of medication, morbidity and mortality are increasing. There can be many reasons for the lack of patient cooperation, which should be taken account during medical treatment. Improving patient adherence can decrease the risk for complications and progression of the disease, which can improve health condition and reduce health care and social costs.