Influencing factors of health promotion behaviour in patients with aortic dissection: a qualitative study using the COM-B model

Objectives This study aimed to understand influencing factors of health promotion behaviour in patients with aortic dissection (AD) using the capability, opportunity, motivation, behaviour (COM-B) model of behaviour.Design A descriptive qualitative design was adopted. Data were collected using face-to-face semi-structured interviews and analysed using directed content analysis.Setting Fujian Medical University Union Hospital.Participants A purposive sample of 16 patients with AD.Results The following themes and subthemes were identified. Psychological capability: (1) lack of disease knowledge; physical capability: (1) physical function limitation; (2) fatigue; physical opportunity: (1) limited access to disease knowledge; (2) communication between providers and patients; (3) objective condition restriction; social opportunity: (1) stigma; (2) social support; reflective motivation: (1) self-efficacy; (2) perceived benefits; (3) personal and family responsibilities; automatic motivation: (1) post-traumatic growth; (2) fear of disease progression.Conclusion This study adopted a novel approach to understanding factors affecting health promotion behaviour among patients with AD. Interventions can be implemented using the Behaviour Change Wheel framework and study findings to improve health promotion behaviour in this patient population.