Social complexity negatively influences lung function in cystic fibrosis after transfer to adult care

Background Several nongenetic factors, such as socioeconomic status, environmental exposures, and adherence have been described to have an impact on outcomes in cystic fibrosis (CF). Objective To determine the effect of social complexity on the % predicted forced expiratory volume (ppFEV1) before and after transfer to adult care among adolescents with CF. Methods Retrospective, single center, cohort study included all patients with CF who were transitioned into adult care between 2005 and 2015 at Indiana University. Social complexity (Bob's level of social support, [BLSS]) was collected at transfer. Linear mixed regression models assessed the relationship between ppFEV1 decline over time and BLSS with other covariates. Results The median age of the patients (N = 133) at the time of transfer was 20 years (interquartile range: 19‐23). Overall, there was a decline in lung function over time in our population (ppFEV1 at 24 months pretransfer 77 ± 20%, ppFEV1 at 24 months, posttransfer 66 ± 24%; P