A metasynthesis of factors affecting self-management of chronic illness

Aim: To identify factors that may serve as facilitators and barriers to self-management described by adults living with chronic illness by conducting a qualitative metasynthesis.

Background: Self-management is an individuals' active management of a chronic illness in collaboration with their family members and clinicians.

Design: Qualitative metasynthesis.

Data sources: We analysed studies (N = 53) published between January 2000-May 2013 that described factors affecting self-management in chronic illness as reported by adults aged over 18 years with chronic illness.

Review methods: Sandelowsi and Barroso approach to qualitative metasynthesis: literature search; quality appraisal; analysis and synthesis of findings.

Results: Collectively, article authors reported on sixteen chronic illnesses, most commonly diabetes (N = 28) and cardiovascular disease (N = 20). Participants included men and women (mean age = 57, range 18-94) from 20 countries representing diverse races and ethnicities. We identified five categories of factors affecting self-management: Personal/Lifestyle Characteristics; Health Status; Resources; Environmental Characteristics; and Health Care System. Factors may interact to affect self-management and may exist on a continuum of positive (facilitator) to negative (barrier).

Conclusion: Understanding factors that influence self-management may improve assessment of self-management among adults with chronic illness and may inform interventions tailored to meet individuals' needs and improve health outcomes.