Evaluation of a Training Strategy between Peers in the Field of Fibromyalgia: A Gender Analysis

Abstract

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease found more commonly in women that requires a greater autonomy and self-sufficiency in caremanagement. Objective: To evaluate, from a gender perspective, the strategy for training fibromyalgia patients from the School of Patients,based on training “between peers”. Method: Quantitative study before and after testing, with 600 participants with fibromyalgia.A questionnaire adapted from the Expert Patients Programme at Standford University that includes the following variables: self-perceivedhealth, emotional stress, quality and lifestyle, limitations, relationship with the health care personnel and self-efficacy. The bivariate andmultivariate analysis was used, as well as the analysis of change between pre-test/post-test. Results: Participants in the training (98%women) described a poor health, with high levels of fatigue, pain and limitations, with significant differences according to the sociodemographicprofile. After the training, emotional stress and lifestyle improved, the number of visits to the doctor dropped and diseaseself-management increased. Conclusion: Training between peers represented an effective education strategy and an optimal opportunityto reinforce social commitment and support, with positive results for the emotional health and self-confidence of women with fibromyalgia.