Factors determining the health locus of control in patients and healthy individuals

Aim of the study
The aim of this study was to compare the dimensions of the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control (MHLC).

Material and methods
This study included 296 individuals. This group included 99 patients of the General, Gastroenterological, Colorectal, and Oncological Surgery Ward hospitalised due to the primary surgical treatment of colorectal cancer (Group A) and 100 patients who were operated on due to gallstones (Group B). The control group (Group C) comprised 97 participants who were free from cancer or gallstones and selected at random from visitors to the Clinic. All participants were asked to complete the standardised questionnaire Multidimensional Health Locus of Control (MHLC) along with the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES).

Results
The only MHLC dimension whose values differed significantly between compared groups was the Powerful others parameter. Mean values of this dimension in both groups of patients were significantly higher than in the controls. On detailed analysis, this finding was confirmed only in participants aged 65 years or older, as well as in married and professionally inactive individuals.

Conclusions
This study explicitly revealed that in lieu of disease, people transfer to others most responsibility for their health, which is not a fully favourable attitude. Consequently, they should be provided with proper support oriented towards strengthening their internal health locus of control along with acceptance and active participation in the therapy ordered by a doctor. Special attention should be paid to lonesome patients. Moreover, systemic activities should be undertaken to provide easier access to health services for professionally active patients.