Abstract

Objective To identify predictors of later study withdrawal among participants active in The

Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young (TEDDY) for 1 year. Methods Multiple logistic

regression was used to discriminate 3,042 children active in TEDDY for the first 3 years from

432 children who withdrew in Years 2 or 3. Predictor variables were tested in blocks—demographic,

maternal lifestyle behaviors, stress and child illness, maternal reactions to child’s increased

diabetes risk, in-study behaviors—and a final best model developed. Results Few demographic

factors predicted study withdrawal. Maternal lifestyle behaviors, accuracy of the mother’s

risk perception, and in-study behaviors were more important. Frequent child illnesses were associated

with greater study retention. Conclusions Demographic measures are insufficient predictors

of later study withdrawal among those active in a study for at least 1 year; behavioral/psychological

factors offer improved prediction and guidance for the development of retention strategies