How Does Family Function Affect the Activation Of patients With Cancer Anorexia Undergoing Chemotherapy? A Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

Objective

To understand the current status of patient activation among chemotherapy patients with Cancer-related Anorexia (CA) and explore the relationship between family function, negative emotions, and patient activation. Additionally, to clarify patients’ experiences in self-management and examine how family function influences their activation in disease management.

Methods

A total of 302 chemotherapy patients with CA participated in the questionnaire survey. The investigation utilized a general information questionnaire, the Patient Activation Measure, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Family Care Index Questionnaire. Based on the quantitative research, qualitative research was conducted, involving semi-structured interviews with 16 chemotherapy patients with CA.

Results

The patient activation score for chemotherapy patients with CA was 66.08 ± 13.70, indicating a moderate level. Structural equation modeling analysis revealed that anxiety and depression acting as partial mediators between family function and patient activation. Interview results identified 3 main barriers to patient activation among chemotherapy patients with CA: (1) lack of self-management knowledge, (2) inadequate self-management behaviors, and (3) intrusion of negative emotions. Additionally, family function was found to promote patient activation through 2 key themes: (1) positive family adjustment and (2) a closer overall family atmosphere.

Conclusions

By integrating quantitative and qualitative evidence, this study uncovers the multifaceted processes shaping patient activation among individuals undergoing chemotherapy with CA. Family function emerges as a critical factor in both emotional regulation and the enhancement of patient activation.

Implications for nursing practice

The findings can guide healthcare professionals in helping chemotherapy patients with CA to identify the strengths and resources within family support, fully harnessing the role of family function to enhance patient activation.