If you don't know where you're going, why insist on running - A reflection on the lack of data on dropout...

Background
This abstract explores the issue of treatment abandonment, specifically examining the lack of studies on dropout in the context of addictive behaviors and addictions in Portugal. Despite the country's international recognition for its drugs policy, the absence of research addressing the reasons for dropout poses an unexpected gap in the literature. This presentation corresponds to the introductory phase of a study on reasons for treatment abandonment reported by users who drop out of a public service for the treatment of addictive behaviors and addictions in a specific treatment center - CRIPORTO Oriental. 
 Methods
The study aims to triangulate data from diverse perspectives, combining quantitative insights from the questionnaire to pacients in dropout with qualitative insights gained through interviews and focus groups with professionals. This methodological approach enables a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to treatment dropout, both from the perspective of the individuals involved and the professionals responsible for coordination and service The study employs a mixed-methods approach to comprehensively explore the phenomenon of treatment dropout. The following methodologies are utilized:

• A literature review focused on the phenomenon of dropout in addictive behaviors and addictions treatments. 
• Administering a questionnaire to individuals who have dropped out during the specified period. The questionnaire aims to gather sociodemographic information from those who discontinued treatment.
• Conducting in-depth individual interviews with individuals who have dropped out to understand the reasons behind their decision to discontinue treatment.
• Conducting individual interviews with professionals holding coordination responsibilities in their respective areas or services. Organizing a focus group involving all team members from each facility within CRIPorto Oriental.
• Analyzing the content obtained from various sources, including individual interviews, the questionnaire, and focus groups. 

Results and Conclusions
The literature review reveals a significant gap in understanding the reasons for treatment abandonment in the field of addictive behaviors and addictions in Portugal. Although the study is still in progress, we will provide insights into the technicians' perspective on the topic of dropout and the reasons leading users to discontinue treatment. However, based on the current state of the literature review and the conducted interviews, we can assert that the effectiveness of  treatments is widely acknowledged to be related to attendance, with long therapy durations being crucial. The non-appearance of users results in financial losses, reduced productivity, and health implications for both individuals and the broader population. The abstract concludes by highlighting the need for a comprehensive examination of treatment abandonment, calling for further research and analysis in this critical area.