Purpose
The aim of this study was to better understand the concept of patient activation in patients with cancer by identifying its dimensions and attributes and clarifying its definition through concept analysis. Methods: This concept analysis study used the method of Walker and Avant (2019), and systematically reviewed dictionary entries and 30 studies in various academic fields. Results: The concept of patient activation in patients with cancer was found to have four attributes: seeking health information, participating in treatment decision-making, confidence in health care, self-management behaviors. The antecedents identified were cancer history, fear of recurrence, information and resources provided by healthcare professionals, access to healthcare providers, negative perceptions of cancer, social support, and sociodemographic status. The consequences were appropriate treatment implementation, satisfaction with treatment, improved physical and mental health conditions, improved quality of life, reduced healthcare costs, and reduced stress. Conclusion: The development of patient activation measurements tailored to the characteristics of the disease and the goal of strengthening the role of patients, as well as the development and implementation of policies, programs, and guidelines to promote patient activation, will improve the medical experience and outcomes of cancer patients and adopt a more person-centered treatment approach.

Citations

• A latent profile analysis of patient activation in postoperative breast cancer patients: a cross-sectional study
  Yongfeng Tang, Dinghua Yang, Shijiao Zhang, Yuan Qin, Jianhua Xue, Xiaolian Jiang
  Supportive Care in Cancer.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Influences of Patient Activation on Quality of Life in Colorectal Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy through a Chemoport
  Hyun Seung Lee, Jeong Hye Kim
  Asian Oncology Nursing.2025; 25(4): 206.     CrossRef