Determinants of activation for self-management in patients with COPD

In this cross sectional study, researchers in the Netherlands examined activation for self-management in COPD patients. In other words, these researchers studied the tendency of a group of COPD patients toward taking charge of the treatment and management of their disease as well as addressing its comorbidities and psychosocial impacts. Survey and chart review data were analyzed for 290 patients with mild to very severe COPD.

Researchers found that only 14.5 percent of the sample were highly motivated for self-management, as measured by the Patient Activation Measure. They determined that six factors were significantly related to lowered activation for self-management: 1) higher anxiety, 2) a more negative view of their illness, 3) higher BMI, 4) older age, 5) more advanced disease and 6) fewer comorbidities. Social support and socioeconomic status were not found to be related to activation levels. The researchers discuss implications for disease management programs for patients with COPD.