Problems with patients' compliance in peptic ulcer therapy

The problem of patient compliance in peptic ulcer therapy is difficult to approach, especially because very few studies in the recent literature have focused on this aspect. Even when discussed, it is of marginal or secondary importance. We lack precise definitions and validated measurement techniques. Analysis of the data now available does not allow the validation of the theoretical parameters currently thought to influence compliance: psychological factors, disease factors, and treatment factors. Nevertheless, it seems, from a review of the studies, that despite the imperfect methodology commonly used, the variations in treatment regimens do not play an important role in patient compliance. This impression needs to be confirmed by new, specific prospective studies.