Mean Quality Of Life Score Research Articles

Quality of Life and Symptom Burden in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Patients Receiving Second-Line Chemotherapy Compared with Immunotherapy

Background and Objectives: The burdened symptomatology accompanying advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is associated with poor prognosis and lower quality of life (QoL). Although both chemotherapy and immunotherapy increase survival, they are still associated with reduced functionality due to their toxicity. This study aimed to estimate the QoL and symptom burden of NSCLC patients receiving second-line chemotherapy compared to patients receiving second-line immunotherapy. Materials and Methods: This comparative, prospective study, conducted from January 2020 to December 2021, included 111 NSCLC patients who were divided into two groups: 61 patients receiving second-line chemotherapy and 50 patients receiving second-line immunotherapy. Patients’ QoL and symptom burden were estimated using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ C-30) (value range 0–100) from treatment cycle 1 to 6. Results: The QoL (mean score > 50) and functionality dimensions (mean score > 50) were moderate to good in both treatment groups, while the symptom burden did not appear to be a serious problem (mean score < 50). From cycle 3 to cycle 5, QoL was significantly better in the immunotherapy group. From cycle 3, the role and social functioning scores were higher in the immunotherapy group, while emotional and cognitive functioning were higher from cycle 2 (p <0.05). The chemotherapy group experienced higher levels of nausea/vomiting, constipation and financial difficulties in all the cycles (p < 0.05). Fatigue and appetite loss were significantly greater from cycle 2 and insomnia was significantly greater from cycle 3. On the contrary, the immunotherapy group experienced higher levels of diarrhea in cycles 5 and 6 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Although both therapy groups did not report significantly impaired QoL and severe symptoms, it seems that QoL improved in the immunotherapy group, which reported a lower symptom burden compared to the chemotherapy group.

The Effect of Continuous Care Model Based Education on Quality of Life, Sleep Quality, and Fatigue in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

ABSTRACT Background Postoperative care strategies, such as self-care education and cardiac rehabilitation, are critical in mitigating readmissions and enhancing patient outcomes following Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery. Purpose The purpose of this study was to design and develop a program that leads to acceptance, increased insight, and appropriate action to control the disease and its potential psychological complications. Methods This randomized control trial involved 140 patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass surgery at a rehabilitation clinic in 2023. The intervention followed the Continuous Care Model, encompassing familiarization, sensitization, control, and evaluation phases. Results Post-intervention, the intervention group exhibited a significantly higher mean quality of life score than the control group (p < .001). Furthermore, a notable difference in mean sleep quality scores between the control and intervention groups was observed post-intervention (p = .026). Discussion Patient education based on the Continuous Care Model effectively enhances quality of life sleep and reduces fatigue in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery. Translation to Health Education Practice The study provides empowerment through patient and family education on self-care practices. Implementing of the Continuous Care Model as a non-invasive, cost-effective method can be considered in the patient education unit of hospitals.

Dynamics trajectory of patient-reported quality of life and its associated risk factors among hepatocellular carcinoma patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors: a prospective cohort study

ObjectiveWe aimed to characterize quality of life (QOL) trajectories among patients with intermediate and advanced hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with immunotherapy.MethodsBarcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage B-C HCC patients receiving immunotherapy at Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital were included. Trajectories of QOL, assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Hepatobiliary (FACT-Hep) questionnaire, were identified through iterative estimations of group-based trajectory models. Associations with trajectory group membership were analyzed using multivariable multinomial logistic regression.ResultsThree trajectory groups were identified (n=156): excellent (35.3%), poor (43.6%), and deteriorating (21.1%) QOL. The deteriorating trajectory group reported a mean QOL score of 124.79 (95% CI, 116.58–133.00), but then declined significantly at month-2 (estimated QOL score 98.67 [95% CI, 84.33–113.00]), and the lowest mean score is reached at month-6 (estimated QOL score 16.58 [95% CI, 0–46.07]). Factors associated with membership to the deteriorating group included no drinking (odds ratio [OR] vs yes [95% CI], 3.70 [1.28–11.11]), no received radiotherapy (OR vs yes [95% CI], 8.33 [1.41–50.00]), diabetes (OR vs no [95% CI], 6.83 [1.57–29.73]), and extrahepatic metastasis (OR vs no [95% CI], 3.08 [1.07–8.87]). Factors associated with membership to the poor group also included body mass index ≤24.0 kg/m2 (OR vs no [95% CI], 4.49 [1.65–12.22]).ConclusionsThis latent-class analysis identified a high-risk cluster of patients with severe, persistent post-immunotherapy QOL deterioration. Screening relevant patient-level characteristics may inform tailored interventions to mitigate the detrimental impact of immunotherapy and preserve QOL.

Gastric fundoplication with endoscopic technique: A novel approach for gastroesophageal reflux disease treatment.

Gastric fundoplication with endoscopic technique (GFET) is an innovative approach to managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This minimally invasive procedure utilizes the GEN-2 Apollo endosuture device and Olympus H2T180 gastroscope to perform partial fundoplication by strategically placing Prolene 2-0 sutures at the 11, 7, 5, 1, and 3 o'clock positions around the gastroesophageal junction. To evaluate whether GFET enhances the lower esophageal sphincter function by creating comprehensive plication to improve the barrier against reflux. This single-center prospective study included patients undergoing GFET. Before beginning GFET, pH metrics and subsequent manometric measurements were obtained. An analysis of variance was performed to determine statistically significant differences between quality of life (QOL) and DeMeester scores at the time of the procedure and 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Pearson's χ 2 test was performed to identify statistically significant differences between categorical variables at the time of the procedure and 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Eighteen participants were enrolled (11 males and 7 females; mean age, 35 years). More than 70% had an initial Hill grade of IIb. One adverse event was recorded after the procedure. One patient underwent valve reinforcement at 12 months. The mean QOL score was markedly higher at the time of the procedure (39.9 ± 4.0) compared to those at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.001). Scores at 12 months were slightly higher than those at 6 months. The highest mean QOL score was observed at the time of the procedure, followed by those at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.001). A similar trend was noted for the mean DeMeester scores (P < 0.001). GFET is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical interventions and endoscopic techniques for managing GERD. Further research is warranted to validate its long-term efficacy and effectiveness over existing treatments.

Impact of Socio-Demographic Factors on Quality of Life and Coping Strategies of Children with Different Disabilities.

Background and Objectives: Children with disabilities face unique challenges that can affect their well-being and quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to assess the QOL and coping strategies adopted by children with disabilities and explore how socio-demographic factors influence QOL and coping strategies. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study, which was conducted in Saudi Arabia with children aged 6 to 18 years, used a stratified random sample to ensure representation from a variety of demographic groups. Short Form-12 (SF-12) was used to assess the QOL in the sample population. The Brief COPE Inventory was used to examine coping strategies among the children. One-way analysis of variance was applied to examine differences in the QOL, coping strategies scores, and demographic variables. Multiple regression analyses were performed to examine the role of demographic variables in predicting QOL and p value was considered statistical significance at p < 0.05. Results: The results of the study clearly revealed significant differences between the mean scores of QOL for gender, age, and type of disability, duration of disability, education qualification, family status, family occupation, and housing status. Female participants showed better QOL in physical functioning than their male counterparts. Children with intellectual disability reported better QOL in general health, vitality, social functioning, and mental health. Participants with seven to eight years of disability reported higher scores in physical functioning, vitality, and mental health. Children whose parents were working in private agencies and living in rented houses scored higher on the general health aspects of quality of life. The findings also revealed that the duration of the disability was a significant predictor of the QOL. The mean scores of different dimensions of coping strategies clearly revealed that male participants used dysfunctional coping (p < 0.01), as compared to problem-focused and emotional-focused coping while female children relied more on emotional-focused coping. Emotion-focused coping was significantly higher in participants with visual (p < 0.01), learning (p < 0.01), and intellectual disabilities (p < 0.01). Dysfunctional coping scores were higher among children with auditory disabilities (p < 0.01) and multiple disabilities (p < 0.01). Conclusions: This study highlights the significance of demographic factors in understanding and improving the well-being of a diverse population of disabled juveniles. It offers valuable insights into the subtle factors affecting quality of life. Future interventions and policies can leverage these findings to enhance the quality of life of individuals with disabilities and to foster a more supportive and inclusive approach.

Quality of life and late therapy effects in pediatric non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivors: Insights from a single-institution study.

The survival outcomes of pediatric patients with mature B-non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) have improved due to advances in treatment. We aimed to assess the frequency and severity of late effects and their impact on quality of life among pediatric NHL survivors. This retrospective study included patients diagnosed with mature B-NHL at Children's Cancer Hospital of Egypt (CCHE) 57357 from January 2012 through December 2015. Patients received treatment according to the modified LMB 96 protocol. The minimum follow-up period was 5years. Assessments for toxicity and quality of life were conducted at regular intervals during and after treatment. Patients were assessed for toxicity including pulmonary dysfunction, cardiac dysfunction, lipid profile abnormalities, endocrine dysfunction (thyroid function, vitamin D levels, growth curves), and cognitive function (intelligence quotient [IQ] level using Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales-5th Edition, and quality of life (QoL) assessment (PedsQoL). A total of 273 patients were eligible, and 206 were evaluable. Median age was 5.45 (range: 2.4-18), with a male-to-female ratio 4:1. Pulmonary function abnormalities were detected in 119/203 (58.6%); most had mild dysfunction (72/119, 60.5%), while 17% had severe dysfunction. Cardiac toxicity occurred in 10% of the patients (n=20). IQ testing showed that 52 patients had a low average IQ score, while 151 patients had either average or above average scores. The total mean QoL score was 99±0.058 classified as "satisfactory." However, significant impairment of the physical domain of quality of life was observed among group C patients compared to A/B (p=.033), older age at diagnosis (p=.042), and those with pulmonary dysfunction (p<.001). Total score of quality of life was significantly impaired among patients with pulmonary dysfunction (p=.009), likewise older age at diagnosis (p=.017) and those with low average IQ scores (p=.033). Childhood mature B-NHL survivors are at significant risk for late effects; pulmonary dysfunction and low average IQ that can subsequently impact QoL.

Quality of Life in People with HIV at the End of Life: Preliminary Results from the Last Gift Observational Cohort Study.

As people living with HIV (PWH) age, they face new challenges that can have a negative impact on their quality of life (QOL) and mental health. This study enrolled PWH at the end of life (EOL) who were actively engaged in cure-related research in Southern California, United States. EOL was defined as having a prognosis of six months or less to live. We examined the relationship between QOL, mental health, and research participation. Structured assessments were used to collect comprehensive data on QOL and mental health. From 2017 to 2023, 35 PWH in their final stages of life who were actively engaged in cure-related research were enrolled. Their median age was 62.7 years, and most were White or otherwise non-Hispanic/non-Latino (90.6%), and male (86.7%). Changes in QOL and the presence of neurologic and psychiatric conditions, with a focus on depression and anxiety, were the primary outcomes assessed in this study. Participants had stable QOL scores throughout the study. There was an inverse relationship between QOL and BDI scores, with higher mean QOL scores being associated with lower mean BDI scores (p < 0.001). QOL remained stable among PWH who participate in cure-related research at EOL. The inverse relationship between QOL and depressive symptoms suggests that participation in cure-related research may improve QOL or reduce depressive symptoms in this population. Future interventions should look into ways to improve the well-being of PWH at EOL through research and customized mental health interventions.

Exploring the quality of life and comorbidity impact among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in Saudi Arabia.

To explore the quality of life (QoL) of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and the factors affecting it. In this cross-sectional study, 269 patients diagnosed with SLE from multiple centers across different regions of Saudi Arabia were included. We used the LupusPRO1.8 QoL assessment tool. Additionally, comprehensive data regarding patient demographics, disease features, and associated comorbidities were collected for analysis. The overall mean QoL score was 57.71±11.97, with the median value (interquartile range [IQR]) of 56.82 (48.62-66.65). The mean health-related QoL (HRQoL) score was 57.09±18.81, with the median (IQR) of 55.63 (44.04-70.19). Among HRQoL domains, the emotional health domain had the lowest score (44.67±30.00, median: 41.7 [16.7-66.7]). The second and third lowest scores were for fatigue (46.24±29.18, median: 43.8 [25-68.8]) and pain (48.65±30.38, median: 50 [25-71.9]). Regarding non-HRQoL, the mean score was 58.32±15.52 and median (IQR) score was 58.85 (48.18-70.83). The desires-goals domain had the lowest score (45.79±31.41), with the median value of 43.8 (21.9-68.8). The presence of comorbidities was the only factor affecting the QoL of patients with SLE. Our findings indicate that patients with SLE have worse overall QoL, which includes both HRQoL and non-HRQoL domains. Furthermore, the presence of comorbidities was the only factor that influenced the QoL of lupus patients.

Quality of life and associated factors among primary caregivers of children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders attending public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

Neurodevelopmental disorders are a set of disorders that negatively affect the acquisition of skills in a variety of developmental domains, including motor function, learning, socialization, language and cognition. However, there is no information available on the standard of living of Ethiopian primary caregivers of children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the quality of life (QOL) and associated factors among primary caregivers of children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted during 1-30 May 2022. Systematic random sampling was used to obtain 352 samples. QOL was measured using the WHO Quality of Life Brief. The gathered information was coded, entered into EpiData 4.6.0.2 and analyzed with SPSS version 26. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify the correlates of QOL and the strength of the correlation was measured by β coefficient with 95% CI. The mean score of the overall QOL was 62.61 with a SD of 5.17. The mean (±SD) scores for the physical health, psychological, environmental and social relationship domains of primary caregivers were 57.36±9.98, 66.98±9.39, 66.06±12.91 and 60.02±9.14, respectively. Age was significantly associated with physical domain (β=-0.25, 95% CI -0.43 to -0.07) and with environmental domain (β=-4.57, 95% CI -9.06 to -0.09). Being divorced/widowed was negatively associated with psychological health (β=-2.99, 95% CI -5.82 to -0.17) and social health (β=-0.62, 95% CI -1.33 to -0.10). The presence of medical illness was negatively associated with the physical health domain (β=-4.32, 95% CI -7.64 to -2.91) and the environmental domain (β=-3.11, 95% CI -5.71 to -0.51). Poor social support was negatively associated with psychological health (β=-3.25, 95% CI -5.89 to -0.61) and the social health domain (β=-3.39, 95% CI -11.3 to 4.6), and moderate social support (β=8.62, 95% CI 3.15 to 14.09) was positively associated with physical health. Depression (β=-6.32, 95% CI -11.96 to -0.67) and anxiety (β =-3.07, 95% CI -5.80 to -0.34) were negatively associated with physical health and the psychological health domain, respectively. The findings from this study indicate that all dimensions of QOL of primary caregivers of children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders in this study setting were compromised. Being divorced or widowed, lack of formal education, age, average monthly income, poor social support, depression, anxiety and the presence of medical illness were factors associated with QOL in all domains. This requires integrating a bio-psychosocial perspective, a positive mental health strategy and pharmaceutical therapies to enhance QOL for caregivers of children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Quality of Life of Older People Living with COPD in Nepal

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the most common chronic health conditions in older people and is increasingly becoming a major public health concern. Objectives: The study aims to assess the quality of life among older patients living with COPD. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2017 to July 2018 in a tertiary care hospital in Kavre, Nepal. A total of 220 patients aged 60 years and above were the respondents. Quality of Life (QOL) of participants was assessed through a widely used shorter version of ST George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ-C). The mean and Pearson correlation coefficients were used while analysing the data. Results: The mean total score for all domains of QOL was 68.57 (SD=18.66). The mean QOL scores for symptom, activity, and impact domains were 70.51 (SD=±22.37), 68.12 (SD=±23.42), and 68.19 (SD=±20.32) respectively, which suggested marked impairments in QOL in all SGRQ-C domains. The factors significantly related to the overall QOL of COPD patients in this study were: gender, education, type of family, and economic status. Conclusion: Nepalese older patients with COPD had poor quality of life. Older patients with COPD had an impaired QOL in all three components of symptom, activity, and impact domains. There should be some initiation on how the QOL of older patients with COPD can be improved.

Mediating Role of Social Support and Family Functioning on Quality of Life of Family Caregivers of Individuals With Alcohol Use Disorder

Background: Caring for persons with alcohol use disorder (AUD) significantly affects the quality of life (QoL) of caregivers. According to Lazarus and Folkman’s Stress and Coping Model (1984), the severity of alcohol consumption (SAC) is a major stressor for AUD caregivers. These stressors impact well-being, with QoL linked to caregivers’ coping resources, especially social support (SS) and family functioning (FF). The study aimed to investigate the mediating roles of SS and FF in the relationship between the SAC and caregivers’ QoL. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two psychiatric hospitals in Amritsar city, Punjab. We used a purposive sampling technique to collect data from 128 family caregivers aged 18 and above who were caring for male patients with AUD aged between 20 and 65. The assessment tools used were the World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF), Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), Family Assessment Device (FAD), and PGI Social Support Questionnaire (PGI SSQ). Results: There is a significant and partial mediation of the association between SAC and QoL by both SS and FF ( P &lt; .001, 99% CI). Moreover, SAC (r = –0.519), FF (r = –0.603), and SS (r = 0.641) showed significant correlations with caregivers’ QoL ( P &lt; .001). The mean scores for SAC, SS, FF, and QoL were 22.66 (11.38), 50.88 (9.45), 127.18 (43.85), and 84.13 (18.70), respectively, suggesting moderate SAC in patients, moderate to high perceived SS levels, moderate perception of family dysfunction, and moderate to high QoL among the caregivers. Conclusion: SAC detrimentally impacts caregivers’ QoL both directly and indirectly through SS and FF, with the latter serving as mediators, partially mitigating SAC’s negative impact. Clinical implications underscore the importance of tailored interventions, emphasizing the strengthening of support systems and consideration of diverse FF domains for personalized approaches. The findings contribute valuable insights for developing targeted interventions customized to the specific needs of AUD caregivers to enhance their overall QoL.

Effectiveness of a nurse-led family empowerment program to improve the quality of life among pregnant adolescents: A randomized controlled trial.

The present study examined the effects of a nurse-led family empowerment program on the quality of life of Palestinian pregnant adolescents. This was a randomized controlled trial with a two-group pre-/post-test design. The sample consisted of 58 pregnant adolescents recruited from six governmental primary health care clinics in Palestine. Participants were randomly allocated in equal numbers to either the control group (n = 29), which received routine care, or the experimental group (n = 29), which received both routine care and the study program. Data collection instruments included a demographic form and the WHO Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQoL-BREF). Data were collected twice: at 32 or 33 weeks' gestation to establish a baseline and at 36 or 37 weeks' gestation post-test. Statistical analyses were performed and included descriptive statistics, chi-square and t-tests. The study findings indicated a significant increase in the mean quality of life scores of the experimental group in the post-testcompared to the pre-test (P < 0.001). Additionally, pregnant adolescents in the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher post-test QoL scores than those in the control group (P < 0.001). The nurse-led family empowerment program emerges as a viable and efficacious alternative intervention for improving the quality of life among Palestinian pregnant adolescents. The study was registered with the NIH U.S. National Library of Medicine ClinicalTrials.gov on 01/09/2021 with the registration code NCT05031130. It can be accessed via this link: https://classic. gov/ct2/show/NCT05031130.

Efficacy of a health education technology program in improving adherence to self-management behaviors and quality of life among adults with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial

AimThis study examined the efficacy of a health education technology program on self-management adherence behavior and quality of life among people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). MethodsA randomized experimental study design was employed. A total of 110 subjects was recruited. The experimental group received a novel technology education program plus routine shared care. The control group received routine shared care alone. Quality of life and adherence to self-management behavior questionnaires were used to measure outcomes. A linear mixed-effects model was used to analyze changes in quality of life after controlling for pre-test effects. The odds ratio was calculated for differences in adherence behavior between the two groups. ResultsThe between-group mean difference in quality of life scores and adherence to physical activity comparing pre-test at 3 months follow-up showed significant progress at 3 months post-test compared with the control group. However, the increase in mean quality of life scores and adherence behavior at 6 months did not demonstrate a sustained between-group difference. ConclusionThe results showed adherence to physical activity and improved quality of life in patients with T2D at 3 months post intervention. Therefore, the program can be used as an intensive model for diabetes shared care.

Quality of Life of Healthcare College Students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life (QOL) and its influencing factors among healthcare college students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare students at King Saud University. A modified version of the Arabic World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire, including 25 questions, was used to assess students' QOL. Data were collected through an online survey and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 26 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Descriptive and regression statistics were used. A total of 547 healthcare students completed the questionnaire during the data collection period. Of all the students, 39.7% were from applied medical college, 62.5% were females, 98.9% were single, and 91.8% were non-smokers. Regarding academic status, 58.3%did not participate in any extracurricular activity, 42.6% had an academic advisor, and 80.4%had a grade point average (GPA) higher than 4.1. The average QOL score across all domains was moderately good (60.30 ± 16.0), whereas the physical domain showed the poorest score (46.89 ± 14.8) while the environmental domain had the greatest score (68.04 ± 20.6). The environmental domain was the only domain that showed significant differences between healthcare colleges (p <0.001). Moreover, students who were male (p = 0.009), non-smokers (p = 0.023), reported living with family/friends (p =0.031), and from families with high monthly income (p < 0.001) had significantly higher environmental QOL scores than their counterparts. The study found that healthcare students had moderately good mean QOL scores. The environmental domain was the only QOL domain that showed significant differences between healthcare colleges with the greatest scoreamong medical college students. Gender, smoking status, residence status, and family monthly income were found to have a strong association with students' environmental QOL scores. Institutions need to focus on the regular measurement of students' QOL, which facilitates implementing strategies that can promote their overall QOL and subsequently positively impact their performance academically and practically.

Translation and Validation of the Persian Version of the Wisconsin Stone Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Patients with kidney stones have a lower quality of life (QOL) than healthy patients; however, treatment guidelines neglect their QOL. Wisconsin stone QOL test (WIS-QOL) is the first specific questionnaire for urolithiasis patients. This study evaluated the reliability and validity of the translated Persian version of the WIS-QOL questionnaire in patients with kidney stones. All patients (> 18 years old) with a history of urolithiasis were included in this cross-sectional. The WIS-QOL questionnaire was translated depending on Hutchinson's guideline. Effects of urolithiasis on the patient's social activity, emotions, disease, and vitality were evaluated. Pearson Correlation and Cronbach's alpha test were used to assess the validity and reliability of the questionnaire. All data were analyzed by SPSS software version 26.0. Among 154 urolithiasis patients, 94 (61%) were males, and 60 (39%) were females. The mean age was 50.4 years (SD: ± 13.6), and the mean QOL score was 84.7 (SD: ±21.8). For each question, the numerical value of the Pearson Correlation Coefficient has been compared with the numerical value, and the validity of the questionnaire was confirmed. The overall Cronbach's alpha was 0.94 for all four areas of the questionnaire, so the reliability of the questionnaire in Persian was confirmed. The present study showed the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the WIS-QOL questionnaire in symptomatic urolithiasis patients. The present study showed the status and impact of urolithiasis on QOL however, longitudinal and prospective studies should be done to specify changes over time.

Sense of Coherence: A Predictor of Quality of Life in Caregivers of Cancer Patients

Background: The caregivers of cancer patients go through numerous changes in their lives, caused by the complexity of cancer care, which then influence their quality of life (QoL). In this context, the sense of coherence (SoC) has been introduced as individuals' capacity to adapt to complex situations. Objectives: This study aimed at examining the relationship between QoL and SoC among the caregivers of cancer patients. Methods: This descriptive correlational study was performed on the caregivers of cancer patients referred to a teaching hospital in Tehran, Iran. In total, 200 eligible caregivers, selected by purposive and convenience sampling from September to December 2022, completed the research instrument comprised of a researcher-made demographic-clinical information form, the SoC Scale (13-item), and WHOQoL-BREF. The data were analyzed by the SPSS 20 software. To investigate the relationship between caregivers’ SoC and QoL, first, the correlation was determined, and afterward, the significant variables were analyzed, using multiple linear regression. Results: The overall mean score of QoL among the caregivers was 52.12 ± 14.45. In this way, the highest and lowest values were associated with the domains of physical health and social relationships, receiving the mean scores of 55.19 ± 11.46 and 38.40 ± 10.08, respectively. The overall mean score of SoC was also equal to 49.71 ± 9.34. As well, the results of the study demonstrated a significant positive correlation between SoC and QoL (r = 0.585, P &lt; 0.001) as well as its 3 domains. Considering the demographic and clinical factors, the regression outcomes revealed that SoC was a predictor of QoL in the caregivers of cancer patients (P &lt; 0.001, Β = 0.65). Among the demographic factors, a significant correlation was accordingly observed between age, marital status, income level, employment status, and QoL and some of its domains (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: It was argued that SoC could be a positive predictor and a protective factor for QoL among the caregivers of cancer patients. In this vein, it was recommended to give a boost to the SoC dimensions during oncology and palliative care via an interdisciplinary approach and a variety of interventions. Upon developing QoL in the caregivers, QoL among the cancer patients could be then promoted.

Learning environment and its relationship with quality of life and burn-out among undergraduate medical students in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveThis study was conducted to determine the association between the learning environment, quality of life (QoL), and burn-out among students from selected public-sector and private-sector medical colleges in Lahore, Pakistan.DesignThis...

Comparative assessment of patient’s quality of life under medical and surgical epilepsy treatment: an observational prospective study

Epilepsy has never been a purely medical problem; its social significance is well known. It is a global issue that affects people of all ages, races, and social classes in different countries and occurs in both men and women. Drug-resistant epilepsy is a form of the disease in which seizures persist despite appropriate therapy with two antiepileptic drugs, either as monotherapy or in combination. However, surgical treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy is still underutilized. The purpose of the study is to compare the level of quality of life in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy under medical treatment and 1 year after surgery in order to evaluate the dynamics in the areas of quality of life. The study design was a prospective case-control observation. The study included neurosurgical patients with a confirmed diagnosis of drug-resistant epilepsy divided into two groups: group 1 - patients in the preoperative phase receiving drug therapy with antiepileptic drugs, and group 2 - patients 1 year after surgical treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy. Demographic and clinical parameters were analyzed, and the Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory-31 survey was carried out before and 1 year after surgery. The first group consisted of 56 patients (55%), and the second group comprised 46 patients (45%). The overall mean quality of life score in group 1 was 53.5, and in group 2 – 59.9, which was statistically significantly different from group 1 (p=0.05). Of the 7 quality of life indicators, a statistically significant improvement was found in 2: general quality of life (p=0.01) and social functioning (p=0.01). 5 indicators showed no statistical differences between the groups: seizure worry (p=0.06), emotional well-being (p=0.9), energy/fatigue (p=0.5), cognitive function (p=0.7), and medication side effects (p=0.6). A comparative analysis of the quality of life of patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy showed positive dynamics of quality of life from the first year after surgery in contrast to uncontrolled epilepsy against the background of medical treatment with antiepileptic drugs.

Quality of life among people with mental illness attending a psychiatric outpatient clinic in Ethiopia: a structural equation model.

Mental illness is one of the most severe, chronic, and disabling public health problems that affects patients' Quality of life (QoL). Improving the QoL for people with mental illness is one of the most critical steps in stopping disease progression and avoiding complications of mental illness. Therefore, we aimed to assess the QoL and its determinants in patients with mental illness in outpatient clinics in Northwest Ethiopia in 2023. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among people with mental illness in an outpatient clinic in Ethiopia. The sampling interval was decided by dividing the total study participants who had a follow-up appointment during the data collection period (2400), by the total sample size 638, with the starting point selected by lottery method. The interviewer-administered WHOQOL BREF-26 tool was used to measure the quality of life (QoL) of people with mental illness. The domains of QoL were identified, and indirect and direct effects of variables were calculated using structural equation modelling with SPSS-28 and Amos-28 software. A p-value of < 0.05 and a 95% CI were used to evaluate statistical significance. A total of 636 (99.7%) participants agreed to participate and completed the data collection. The mean score of overall QoL of people with mental illness in the outpatient clinic was 49.6 ± 10 Sd. The highest QoL was found in the physical health domain (50.67 ± 9.5 Sd), and the lowest mean QoL was found in the psychological health domain (48.41 ± 10 Sd). Rural residence, drug nonadherence, suicidal ideation, not getting counselling, moderate or severe subjective severity, family does not participate in patient care and a family history of mental illness had an indirect negative effect on QoL. Alcohol use and psychological health domain had direct positive effect on QoL. Furthermore, objective severity of illness, having low self-esteem, and having history of mental illness in the family had both direct and indirect effect on QoL. Furthermore, sociodemographic factors (rural residence, illiterate educational status, not married marital status), social support-related factors (poor self-esteem, family not participating in patient care), substance use factors (alcohol use, tobacco use) and clinical factors (high objective and subjective severity of illness, not getting counselling, suicidal ideation, higher number of episodes, comorbid illness, family history of mental illness, poor drug adherence) directly and indirectly affected QoL. In this study, the QoL of people with mental illness was poor, with the psychological health domain the most affected. Sociodemographic factors, social support-related factors, drug use factors, and clinical factors, directly and indirectly affected QoL through the mediator variables of physical health domains, psychological health domains, social relation health domains, and environmental health domains. In order to improve the QoL of people with mental illnesses, we recommend that emphasis be given to addressing the QoL of those with mental illness, including the development of policy and practice responses that address the above identified factors.

The Interplay of Psycho-Social Determinants on Quality of Life and Health Behaviors Among Hispanic, Non-Hispanic Black Cancer Survivors

ObjectivesThis study aimed to explore psycho-social factors (i.e., socio-demographics, health insurance, stress) associated with Quality of life (QOL) and the degree to which self-reported access to healthcare and health behaviors (i.e., fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity) mediate the effects of psycho-social factors on QOL among Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black (NHB), and other non-White cancer survivors. MethodsThe descriptive cross-sectional study enrolled a total of 74 Hispanic (n = 26), NHB (n = 42), and other non-White (n = 6) people affected by cancer. QOL, physical activity, diet, stress, and survivorship care data were collected prospectively between June 2022-September 2023. ResultsThe mean scores of QOL were moderate for global health (59.4 ± 21.4) and functional status (64.8 ± 22.2) and low for symptom experience (33.6 ± 19.4). Of the participants, 35.1% (n = 24) reported at least one challenge in accessing healthcare. The average daily consumption of fruits and vegetables was 2.44 ± 0.61 cup equivalents. Most participants had insufficient (37.8%) or minimal (47.3%) engagement in physical activity. Men and those with higher stress levels reported lower global health status. Higher stress level was associated with an increased likelihood of lower physical activity. Private insurance and some college education were associated with an increased likelihood of consuming more fruit and vegetables. Self-reported access to healthcare did not mediate the association between any of the variables and the global health score of QOL. ConclusionsHispanic, NHB and other non-White cancer survivors had moderate global health and functional status with lower symptom burden. Further research with a large sample is needed to explore the associations between health behaviors, access to care challenges, and other factors that may better explain determinants of QOL among non-White cancer survivors. Implications for Nursing PracticeFindings suggest that tailored interventions should consider the interplay of psychosocial determinants to optimize health behaviors and QOL.