Exploration of the factors influencing the quality of life among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: the data from a cross-sectional study in Shandong

Abstract

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has sparked unprecedented transformations in the lives of adolescents, with reshaping their routines, social dynamics, educational experiences, and overall well-being. Our study delves into the influence of various factors on adolescents’ quality of life (QOL) among the COVID-19 pandemic in Shandong Province, China.MethodsEmploying a cross-sectional research approach combined with multivariable analysis, we scrutinize the association of demographic factors (age, gender, education level, ethnic groups, urban area, and family economic status) and health-related behaviors (sleep duration, and self-reported health status) with QOL in 9953 students.ResultsDuring the pandemic, the average QOL for adolescents in Shandong Province was 133. Our analysis revealed that sleep duration and age had statistically significant associations with total QOL, with the OR values of 1.43 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03 to 1.83) and 0.44 (95% CI: 0.19 to 0.70), respectively. Notably, we observed that adolescents from economically disadvantaged families, or those with poorer self-reported health status, were more likely to report lower QOL scores.ConclusionsOverall, our study highlights the potential association of sleep duration, age, family economic status, and self-reported health with the QOL of adolescents in Shandong Province during the pandemic. During similar public health crises, policymakers, educators, and healthcare providers can actively work through resource allocation and effective intervention measures towards alleviating financial burdens, improving health conditions, and ultimately enhancing the total QOL for adolescents.