Page 76 - JCTR-11-5

Journal of Clinical and
Translational Research Fibromyalgia: Examination across life domains

test or specific biomarker with sufficient diagnostic impact of fibromyalgia. 23,24 Over time, this behavior can
accuracy has been identified; however, emerging findings lead to impaired functionality, physical disability, and a
from proteomic research and gene expression profiling rise in negative mood, contributing to a psychological
show potential for developing novel diagnostic methods. 15 feeling of helplessness that, if prolonged, may result in
As such, the onset of fibromyalgia symptoms marks depression. 25,26 Conversely, maintaining physical activity is
a significant shift in individuals’ functional, social, associated with a lower perception of functional limitation
24
and emotional lives. Research employing health despite pain. Despite these obstacles, physical activity
16
questionnaires repeatedly shows that people with is a recommended treatment option for individuals with
fibromyalgia suffer considerable disadvantages across fibromyalgia, even though pain, fatigue, and decreased
11,27
multiple domains of health status (i.e., physical ability, mobility frequently limit their participation.
social interaction, physical discomfort, overall well-being, Despite the south of Brazil being a significant hub for
energy levels, social functioning, and mental health) healthcare development, the state of Paraná still shows a
compared to the general population and other chronic scarcity of research in this area. Understanding diseases
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pain conditions. Fibromyalgia patients often struggle and dispelling misconceptions about them requires a
9
to fulfill their professional responsibilities, resulting comprehensive epidemiological profile, which in turn
in decreased output, higher rates of absenteeism, and enables the development of informed public policy.
29
presenteeism, where individuals are physically present Although fibromyalgia is not a contagious condition
but perform at a subpar level. 2,12,14 The intensification necessitating public health control measures, it has a
of symptoms directly correlates with decreased work significant impact on individuals with the syndrome
productivity. For example, a study in Australia found that as well as their family members. Given the numerous
17
30
among women with fibromyalgia, 54.2% worked full-time hypotheses about the cause of fibromyalgia, the challenges
and 21.5% part-time at symptom onset, but 5 years later, healthcare professionals face in diagnosing and treating it,
only 15.6% worked full-time, and 44.8% were no longer and the significant negative effect on the quality of life of
engaged in paid employment. Leisure activities are also those affected, this study aims to gather epidemiological
18
adversely affected, as patients often lack the energy or data about fibromyalgia patients in a specific health region
physical capacity for recreational pursuits, leading to social in Brazil. The objective is to characterize the sample and its
and emotional isolation. 13,19 Research has found that the effects across numerous life domains, which can be justified
majority of women with fibromyalgia experience pain and by the scientific and social significance of producing
fatigue for more than 90% of their waking hours, thereby information about the local reality of fibromyalgia, raising
reducing their enjoyment of leisure activities. 19 awareness of this condition, and contributing to the
Psychological factors, including anxiety, depression, enhancement of healthcare and quality of life for those
and coping mechanisms, are significant contributors to affected.
the deterioration of quality of life and physical functioning 2. Materials and methods
in individuals with fibromyalgia. 13,14 Depression and
anxiety are common comorbidities that worsen pain 2.1. Study design and setting
perception, fatigue, and sleep problems, thereby making it This cross-sectional study was conducted as part of
even more difficult for patients to participate in self-care a broader project titled “Biopsychosocial Aspects of
and maintain their independence. Features such as pain Individuals Diagnosed with Fibromyalgia.” The study
catastrophizing and self-efficacy, one’s perceived ability to population was drawn from the 8 Health Region of the
th
cope with stressful situations, affect the impact of pain on State of Paraná, a region with approximately 350,000
daily activities, regardless of pain intensity. Research has inhabitants. Following a sample size calculation, as
found that catastrophizing about pain is linked to a greater detailed in the data analysis section, the study included 85
detrimental effect on daily life tasks. 20 participants of both sexes. Of these, 84.71% were from the
Engaging in physical activity and exercise is widely city of Francisco Beltrão, 8.24% from Barracão, and 7.06%
acknowledged as a vital component for managing from other municipalities. The average monthly income
fibromyalgia’s impact on health. 21,22 Individuals with was Brazilian Real (R$) 4,439.10 (standard deviation
fibromyalgia frequently exhibit avoidance behaviors, [SD] = R$ 3,695.77).
prioritizing pain prevention over achieving physical
activity and exercise objectives. Avoidance of movement 2.2. Procedures
23
(kinesiophobia) is negatively associated with self-efficacy, The study rigorously adhered to all ethical principles
partly mediated by general fatigue and the functional recommended by relevant regulatory bodies. Data collection

Volume 11 Issue 5 (2025) 70 doi: 10.36922/JCTR025290042