EXAMINATION OF VARIABLES RELATED TO DISEASE ADAPTATION OF ADULTS DIAGNOSED WITH NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

Aim: This study aims to examine the level of adjustment to illness of adults with at least one non-communicable disease (NCD) in Antalya and some socio-demographic characteristics and health history-related factors that may be related to adjustment to illness. Methods: This descriptive study included 329 individuals diagnosed with at least one NCD. Data were collected using the descriptive characteristics form and the Adaptation to Chronic Illness Scale (ACIS). Results: The participants’ mean age was 58.76 ± 6.79 years; 62.6% were female, and 28.0% had a low-income level. Most participants had cardiovascular disease (71.7%) and diabetes (59.6%), while 26.1% had respiratory diseases and 3% had cancer. Their mean total ACIS score was 100.01 ± 11.08. The level of adjustment to illness of individuals with NCDs was significantly associated with having respiratory disease, regular health checks, regular drug use, and the general status (perceived health, quality of life) and psychological dimensions of the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF Turkish Version (WHOQOL-BREF-TR) (p <0.05). Conclusions: The participants’ mean total ACIS score was above average. Healthcare professionals in family health centers should identify at-risk individuals with low adjustment to their NCD and train them according to their needs.