Increasing adherence to cystic fibrosis treatment: A systematic review of behavioral techniques

Cystic fibrosis is a fatal chronic illness that primarily affects the respiratory and pancreatic systems. Treatment includes daily medications, enzyme and vitamin supplements, a high‐calorie diet, and airway clearance sessions (e.g., chest physiotherapy, exercise). Although this regimen is essential to longevity, families have difficulty adhering to the multiple treatment components. Adherence is especially problematic with diet, chest physiotherapy, and exercise. Studies utilizing behavioral techniques to increase adherence to cystic fibrosis treatment components have been conducted with varying results. In this paper, a critical review of these treatment studies and suggestions for future work are presented. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2004; 37:8–16. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.