2nd Edition of Public Health World Conference (PHWC) 2026

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Patient activation—an individual’s knowledge, skills, and confidence in managing health—has been linked to improved outcomes in chronic illnesses. Its role in fibromyalgia, particularly among women, remains underexplored.

Objective: To examine associations between patient activation, functional status, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in women with fibromyalgia.

Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 233 Israeli women recruited via the ASAF Fibromyalgia Association. Validated measures included the Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13), Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR), and Short Form-12 (SF-12) for HRQoL. Multivariate linear regression models adjusted for sociodemographic factors assessed predictors of fibromyalgia burden and HRQoL.

Results: PAM scores correlated positively with MCS-12 (r = .27, p < .001) but not significantly associated with FIQR-Total scores (β = –.08, p = .14). Higher PCS-12 and MCS-12 scores were independently associated with lower FIQR-Total scores (PCS-12: β = –.29, p < .001; MCS-12: β = –.21, p = .001). Traditional religiosity (vs. non-religious) was positively associated with higher FIQR-Total scores (B = 7.11, p = .006) and with higher MCS-12 scores (B = 4.67, p = .045).

Conclusions: Patient activation may support emotional well-being in fibromyalgia patients but may be insufficient alone to reduce symptom burden. Integrated, gender-sensitive, biopsychosocial care models that enhance activation and address both physical and mental health may improve outcomes in women with fibromyalgia.