Poor QOL Research Articles

Effect of Maternal Knowledge of Asthma Management on Quality of Life and Asthma Control among Children with Asthma: A Cross-Sectional Study.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of mothers' knowledge about asthma management on quality of life and asthma control among children with asthma in Palestine. This cross-sectional study was carried out by mothers of children with asthma in Palestine in four major public hospitals. Mothers of a total of 220 were selected randomly via a computerized system. Data were collected using Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life (PAQLQ), an Asthma Control Test (ACT), and the mothers' Self-Practices and Knowledge (SPK) of asthma management questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (V25). A total of 220 mothers of children with asthma were randomly selected and invited to participate but 182 agreed to participate, with a response rate of 83%. The mean age of participant children was 9.7 ± 2.72 years, and the mean age of mothers was 34.5 ± 9.6 years. The mean score of the QoL was 3.91(SD ± 1.61) out of 7. Most participant children had uncontrolled asthma with a total mean score of 14.13(SD ± 5.23) on the ACT. The mean score of mothers' SPK level was 2.12(SD ± 0.83) with a total mean score of 42.13 ± 3.68 out of 68, which indicated a moderate level of knowledge and there was a strong correlation between mothers' SPK and children's QoL. The investigation showed that mothers of children with asthma had moderate SPK, and the children had uncontrolled asthma with poor QoL. These findings suggest developing educational initiatives to enhance parents' asthma-related knowledge and skills to improve their children's asthma-related quality of life and asthma control.

Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of Life Among Women in Rural and Urban Communities of North-West Nigeria

Introduction: Menopause is a significant life milestone in women as they age. It affects Quality of Life, causing physical, cognitive, emotional, and social challenges. The aim of this study was to document Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of Life among menopausal Women in Kaduna, Northwest Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among menopausal women using questionnaires to assess socio-demographics, reproductive histories, perceptions of symptoms and quality of life. The Utian QoL questionnaire (UQoL) and menopause rating scale (MRS) were used. Data was analyzed using IBM Statistical Product and Service Solution version 26.0. Results: Four hundred twenty women were recruited. Total MRS score was 15.38 ± 6.02 with mean scores of 5.61 ± 2.63 somatic, 5.23 ± 2.33 psychological, and 3.56 ± 2.47 sexual domains. Sleep problems (99.8%), physical and mental fatigue (85.2%), joint and muscular pain (82.4%) and sadness (82.1%) were the commonest symptoms. Linear regression of MRS indicated significant association with pregnancies and births (p = 0.011 and 0.022). The overall UQOL was 85.53 ± 12.77. Zero parity and no education were associated with lower UQOL score (p = 0.011 and p = 0.001 respectively). Marriage was associated with a greater UQOL (p = 0.001). Presence of Menstrual related symptoms predicted poor health and sexual UQOL. Conclusion: Prevalence of menstrual related symptoms was quite high and its presence predicted poor Qol. Menopausal women should receive information about symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle adjustments from healthcare workers to improve their quality of life.

Association Between Frailty and Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Elderly Women: A Retrospective Study

Introduction and HypothesisThis study evaluated the association between pelvic organ prolapse (POP), frailty, and sarcopenia to explore how POP treatment can extend healthy life expectancy in elderly women.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study of prospectively collected data, comparing women with mild POP (stages 0–II) with those with advanced POP (stages III and IV). The inclusion criteria for this study were women who visited the clinic with at least one symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction and underwent imaging studies between April 2020 and November 2022. Initially, 119 patients met these inclusion criteria. Patients were excluded if they had a history of previous POP treatment, did not respond to the study survey, or were lost to follow-up. After applying these exclusion criteria, 82 patients were included in the final analysis, of whom 65 underwent surgery (laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy, colpocleisis, tension-free vaginal tape, and native tissue repair). Assessments included POP Quantification, Kihon Checklist, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quality of Life (P-QOL) questionnaire, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), and Incontinence Symptom Questionnaire (ICIQ-SF). Pelvic muscles were measured using MRI or CT. Immunohistochemical analysis of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), estrogen receptor beta , and androgen receptor was performed on surgical specimens from 43 patients.ResultsThe median age of participants was 75 years. Of the 82 patients, 48 (58.5%) were classified as frail or pre-frail, and 22 (26.8%) exhibited motor impairment. Advanced POP (stages 3 and 4) was seen in 41 patients. These patients had more motor function impairments (advanced, 16; mild, 6; p = 0.01). Patients with advanced POP had poorer P-QOL, ICIQ-SF (median: 9.5 vs 4, p = 0.006) and OABSS (7 vs 4, p = 0.008) scores, and smaller pubococcygeus muscle diameter (2.5 vs 3 cm, p = 0.017). Postoperatively, significant improvements were seen in P-QOL (all domains except personal relationships: p < 0.001), total IPSS (11 vs 4, p < 0.001), OABSS (6 vs 5, p = 0.033), and ICIQ-SF scores (6 vs 2, p < 0.001). ERα expression was associated with preoperative frailty (r = −0.37, p = 0.014).ConclusionsAdvanced POP correlates with poorer QOL, worse urinary symptoms, and reduced pubococcygeus muscle diameter, consistent with sarcopenia, compared with mild POP.

Quality of Life Determinants in Patients with Metastatic Prostate Cancer: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Questionnaire-Based Study.

Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting men globally, with a significant impact on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). With the recent therapeutic advancements and improvements in survival, there is a need to understand the determinants of HRQOL in metastatic prostate cancer patients to optimize treatment strategies for quality of life as the number of survivors increases. The aim of this study was to identify clinical variables that affect HRQOL and its domains in patients with metastatic prostate cancer. We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study in patients diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer at a tertiary cancer center in India. Baseline clinical features, treatment details, and completed Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate (FACT-P), composed of FACT-general (FACT-G) and prostate cancer-specific concerns subscale (PCS) and FACT-P Trial Outcome Index (FACT-P TOI) questionnaires, were collected. The mean total, as well as individual domain scores, were calculated. Additionally, these were stratified by the current treatment being received by patients. Linear regression was used to identify independent factors affecting HRQOL in these patients. Of the 106 enrolled patients, 84 completed the FACT-P questionnaire and were included in the analysis. The median age was 66 years, and at the time of assessment, 3 patients (3.6%) were receiving androgen deprivation therapy only, 53 patients (63.1%) were on ADT + androgen receptor-targeted agents (ARTAs), and 18 patients (21.4%) patients received ADT + chemotherapy. The mean (±standard deviation) of the FACT-P TOI score was 70.33 (±15.16); the PCS subscale was the most affected, followed by functional well-being. Patients on chemotherapy scored significantly higher on PCS, but the composite scores were not significantly different. Univariable regression identified obesity (body mass index > 25 kg/m2) and duration of first-line treatment as significant predictors of better HRQOL; however, obesity was the only independent predictor in multivariable analysis (β = 8.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.2 to 15.0; p = 0.022). Obesity also independently predicted a better FACT-P and its physical well-being domain score and PCS. Prostate cancer patients experience impaired QoL, especially in the prostate cancer-specific and functional well-being domains. Lower BMI is an independent predictor of poor QoL, and this requires efforts to assess the impact of strategies to manage the nutritional status of patients with metastatic disease on QoL outcomes.

Neighborhood environment and quality of life of older adults in eastern Nepal: findings from a cross-sectional study

IntroductionQuality of life (QoL) is a subjective measure reflecting individuals’ evaluations based on their personal goals and values. While global research shows the role of neighborhood factors like ethnic diversity and socio-cultural dynamics on QoL, these are unexplored in the Nepali context. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between neighborhood environment and QoL among Nepali older adults in eastern Nepal.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 847 non-institutionalized older adults (aged ≥ 60 years) from two districts in eastern Nepal. QoL was evaluated using the 13-item brief Older People’s Quality of Life questionnaire, where a mean score of < 3 indicated low/poor QoL. The neighborhood environment, conceptualized across three domains (demographic, socio-cultural, and built environment), included ethnic diversity, connections with family, friends, and neighbors, cultural ties, residential stability, and rurality. Their association with QoL was examined using multivariable logistic regression.ResultsAround 20% of older adults reported poor QoL. Higher ethnic diversity (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 0.12, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.04–0.36), moderate contact with family and relatives (aOR = 0.26, CI: 0.11–0.61), and high contact with neighbors (aOR = 0.09, CI: 0.03–0.21) were associated with lower odds of poor QoL. Conversely, high contact with friends (aOR = 2.29, CI: 1.30–4.04) and unstable residence (OR = 6.25, CI: 2.03–19.23) increased the odds of poor QoL. Additionally, among the covariates, chronic disease, tobacco use, unemployment, and lack of education were also significantly associated with poor QoL.ConclusionOverall, the demographic environment, socio-cultural factors, and the built environment of the neighborhood influence QoL. Therefore, diversifying the neighborhood’s ethnic composition, promoting social connections such as frequent contact with family, relatives, and neighbors, and ensuring residential stability can enhance the QoL of older adults.

The Impact of Malnutrition on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Outcomes: The Predictive Value of the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) versus Acute Exacerbations in Patients with Highly Complex COPD and Its Clinical and Prognostic Implications.

Current management of COPD is predominantly focused on respiratory aspects. A multidimensional assessment including nutritional assessment, quality of life and disability provides a more reliable perspective of the true complexity of COPD patients. This was a prospective observational study of 120 elderly COPD patients at high risk of acute exacerbations. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) was administered in addition to the usual respiratory assessment. The primary outcome was a composite of moderate or severe acute exacerbations during 52 weeks of follow-up. The median MNA Short Form (SF) score was 11 (8-12), 39 participants (32.50%) had a normal nutritional status, 57 (47.5%) were at risk of malnutrition and 24 (20%) were malnourished. Our multivariate linear regression models showed that the MNA score was associated with dyspnea and respiratory symptom severity, assessed by the Modified British Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale and the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score, with spirometric variables, in particular with the severity of airflow limitation based on the value of FEV1, and with poorer QoL, as assessed by the EQ-5D-3 questionnaire. Competing risk analysis according to nutritional status based on the MNA Total Score showed that COPD participants "at risk of malnutrition" and "malnourished" had a higher risk of moderate to severe acute exacerbations with sub-hazard ratios of 3.08 (1.40-6.80), p = 0.015, and 4.64 (1.71-12.55), p = 0.0002, respectively. Our study confirms the importance of assessing nutritional status in elderly COPD patients and its prognostic value.

Self and proxy symptom reporting in glioma patient-caregiver dyads: the role of psychosocial function in rating accuracy

BackgroundIllness-related communication and depressive symptoms within families may play an important role in caregivers’ ability to accurately understand patients’ symptom burden. We examined the associations between these psychosocial factors and symptom accuracy in patients with glioma and their family caregivers.MethodsPatients and caregivers (n = 67 dyads) completed measures of depressive symptoms (CES-D), illness communication (CICS), and QOL (SF-36). Patients reported on their own cancer-related symptoms (MDASI-BT) while caregivers reported on their perception of the patients’ symptoms (i.e., proxy reporting). Paired t-tests and difference scores were used to test for agreement (absolute value of difference scores between patients and caregiver proxy symptom and interference severity reports) and accuracy (caregiver underestimation, overestimation, or accurate estimation of patient symptom and interference severity).ResultsClinically significant disagreement was found for all means scores of the MDASI-BT subscales except for gastrointestinal symptoms and general symptoms. Among caregivers, 22% overestimated overall symptom severity and 32% overestimated overall symptom interference. In addition, 13% of caregivers underestimated overall symptom severity and 21% of caregivers underestimated overall symptom interference. Patient illness communication was associated with agreement of overall symptom severity (r=−0.27, p = 0.03) and affective symptom subscale (r=−0.34, p < 0.01). Caregivers’ reporting of illness communication (r=−0.33, p < 0.01) and depressive symptoms (r = 0.46, p < 0.0001) were associated with agreement of symptom interference. Caregiver underestimating symptom severity was associated with lower patient physical QOL (p < 0.01); caregiver underestimating symptom interference was associated with lower patient physical QOL (p < 0.0001) and overestimating symptom interference was associated with lower patient physical QOL (p < 0.05). Patient and caregiver mental QOL was associated with caregiver underestimating (p < 0.05) and overestimating (p < 0.05) symptom severity.ConclusionThe psychosocial context of the family plays an important role in the accuracy of symptom understanding. Inaccurately understanding patients experience is related to poor QOL for both patients and caregivers, pointing to important targets for symptom management interventions that involve family caregivers.

Prevalence of peripheral neuropathy, amputation, and quality of life in patients with diabetes mellitus

Peripheral neuropathy and amputation are common complications of diabetes mellitus (DM) that significantly impact the quality of life of the affected individuals. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy, the level of amputation, and the quality of life in patients with DM. This cross-sectional study was conducted after approval of the synopsis involving 225 diagnosed patients with DM on pre-defined eligibility criteria, selected from public sector OPDs, specialized diabetes centres, and centres manufacturing orthotics and prosthetics. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and the administration of the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument and the Asian Diabetes Quality of Life Questionnaire. The level of amputation was recorded for each participant. Data was entered into SPSS, and results were synthesized. Pearson correlation is applied to find an association between gender and the quality of life of the participants, while P ≤ 0.05 will be considered significant. The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy in a sample of 225, based on a self-administered questionnaire, was (44.4%), and in terms of foot examination was (51.1%). As people progressed in age, the prevalence increased to 20.0% in patients above 60 years and 8.9% in ≤ 35 years of age. The majority of participants (56.0%) have had DM for less than five years. Females were 57.8% of the study population, while 97.8% of participants had type II DM. Below-knee amputation of the right limb was observed in 22(9.8%) of the participants. The QoL was poor in the majority of the participants (96.9%) patients with DM (P = 0.638 and T = -0.471). This cross-sectional study highlights a high prevalence of peripheral neuropathy and amputation and poor QoL in patients with diabetic mellitus.

Tissue Iron Distribution in Anemic Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease: Results of a Pilot Study.

Background/Objectives: Anemia is a frequent multifactorial co-morbidity in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) associated with morbidity and poor QoL. Apart from insufficient erythropoietin formation, iron deficiency (ID) contributes to anemia development. Identifying patients in need of iron supplementation with current ID definitions is difficult since no good biomarker is available to detect actual iron needs. Therefore, new diagnostic tools to guide therapy are needed. Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study analyzing tissue iron content with MRI-based R2*-relaxometry in 20 anemic ESKD patients and linked it with iron biomarkers in comparison to 20 otherwise healthy individuals. Results: ESKD patients had significantly higher liver (90.1 s-1 vs. 36.1 s-1, p < 0.001) and spleen R2* values (119.8 s-1 vs. 19.3 s-1, p < 0.001) compared to otherwise healthy individuals, while their pancreas and heart R2* values did not significantly differ. Out of the 20 ESKD patients, 17 had elevated spleen and 12 had elevated liver R2* values. KDIGO guidelines (focusing on serum iron parameters) would recommend iron supplementation in seven patients with elevated spleen and four patients with elevated liver R2* values. Conclusions: These findings highlight that liver and especially spleen iron concentrations are significantly higher in ESKD patients compared to controls. Tissue iron overload diverged from classical iron parameters suggesting need of iron supplementation. Measurement of MRI-guided tissue iron distribution might help guide treatment of anemic ESKD patients.

Effect of long COVID-19 syndrome on health-related quality of life: a cross-sectional study.

This study aimed to assess the association of anxiety, headache, and insomnia on the QoL of patients with long COVID-19. We conducted a cross-sectional survey between August 2020 and March 2023. A total of 200 participants were eligible, 53 were excluded and 147 patients with long COVID were included. QoL was evaluated across eight domains using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Standardized protocols including the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) (n = 103), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (n = 73), and Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) (n = 67) were also used. Participants with sleep disorders had significantly lower Vitality (p < 0.001). Participants with anxiety disorders had significantly lower Vitality (p = 0.001), poorer Mental Health (p = 0.008), and more severe Bodily Pain (p = 0.008). Participants with headache had significantly lower Vitality (p = 0.032), poorer Mental Health (p = 0.036), and poorer Physical Functioning (p = 0.016). Participants with both headache and anxiety had significantly lower Vitality (p = 0.005) and Mental Health (p = 0.043) domain scores. Correlation analysis revealed that higher scores for anxiety, sleep disorder, and headache were independently correlated with poorer QoL across various domains. The presence of sleep disorder was associated with a fourfold increase in risk of experiencing diminished Vitality (odds ratio [OR]4.47; 95% CI 1.01-19.69; p = 0.048). Participants with anxiety, sleep, and headache disorders tended to have a worse QoL. The Vitality and Mental Health domains were the most adversely affected in patients with long COVID. Sleep disorders were associated with a fourfold increase in the risk of poor Vitality.

Quality of Life and its sociodemographic determinants: a population-based study from rural Punjab, India

BackgroundQuality of Life (QoL) is an individual’s subjective perception of well-being within their cultural context. While most QoL studies focus on individuals with certain health conditions, factors such as sex, marital status, education, and family structure can influence QoL beyond age and health conditions. Considering the limited studies on QoL in the general Indian population, especially from rural areas, the present study aims to explore the QoL and sociodemographic factors affecting QoL among community-dwelling adults in rural Punjab.MethodsThis community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 931 individuals of both sexes (59.6% female) aged 20–75 years residing in rural areas of Mansa, Punjab, India. Sociodemographic data were collected using an interview schedule, and QoL was measured using the WHOQOL-BREF.ResultsThe overall mean QoL score was found to be 67.44 ± 14.7. The most affected QoL was in the physical domain (mean = 60.203 ± 13.49), followed by psychological (mean = 65.67 ± 18.3), social-relationship (mean = 69.88 ± 26.43), and environmental domains (mean = 74.05 ± 20.58). Adjusted logistic regression analysis revealed female sex, advanced age (age group ≥ 60 years), illiteracy, and unmarried status to be positively associated and family size of 6–10 members to be negatively associated with poor QoL.ConclusionThe study suggests that females, elderlies, illiterates, and unmarried individuals may be at a higher risk of poor QoL. Further, education and a bigger family size appear to increase subjective well-being among participants.

WHO BREF Quality of Life Score as a Prognostic Indicator of Survival in Patients recovered from COVID-19 Associated Rhino-Orbito-Cerebral Mucormycosis.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated mucormycosis (CAM) has emerged as a formidable infection in patients with COVID-19, this study was designed to assess the QOL in patients with and its predictability for survival in CAM victims. This long term prospective observational study of 290 patients with CAM was conducted over 2years using a standard questionnaire (the abbreviated World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire [WHO-BREF]), Karnofsky performance scale (KPS), palliative performance scale (PPS) and patient rated improvement (PRI) ranging from 0 to 9. Cut-off values of ≤ median score was considered to indicate poor QOL or poor improvement. The overall 2year survival rate was 78.27% with mean survival time of 763.2 ± 1.2days (Mean ± S.E) (95% CI: 760.76-765.6). The disease specific mortality was 22.1%. The overall mean QOL was 53.5(10.2) with 51% of population exhibiting poor QOL. Spearman rho correlation showed strong positive correlation between the three QOL scales and PRI (ρ-0.72, p < 0.001). On Cox regression analysis the stage, all four domains of WHO BREF, KPS, and PPS were independent predictors of long term survival in CAM patients. Approximately half of the patients with CAM had poor QOL and poor improvement. All 4 domains of WHO BREF score can be used as a predictor of long term survival in CAM patients. Early recognition is the key to optimal treatment, improved outcomes, and improved QOL in patients with CAM.

Assessment of Acute Complications and Quality of Life in Patients with Ischemic Stroke at Shar Teaching Hospital, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq

Objectives: To assess the acute complications and QOL of patients with ischemic stroke at a hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to recruit 131 patients with ischemic stroke at the Shar Hospital in Sulaimaniyah City, Iraq. The non-probability purposive sampling technique was performed at the Neurology Unit. Information was obtained through direct interviews. The questionnaire consists of patients’ characteristics, acute complications, and QOL. Results: Most patients were aged 60-69 years old (67.25%), males (53.4%), married (90.8%), had no formal education (66.4%), housewives (36.6%), from urban areas (79.4%), had no previous transient ischemic attack (TIA) (76.3%), had two comorbidities (35.1%), had a chest infection (61.8%), UTI (62.6%), urinary retention (59.5%), shoulder pain (63.4%), fever (67.2%), had 7-8 complications (25.2%), had poor QoL for energy dimension (61.8%), family role (57.3%), language (58%), mobility (58.8%), mood (60.3%), self-care (70.2%), vision (73.3%). However, most patients had good QoL for personality (52.7%), social role (64.9%), thinking (60.3%), upper extremity function (50.4%), and work/productivity (55%). Additionally, most patients (66.4%) had poor overall QoL, and only 33.6% had good overall QoL. A significant association (p≤0.05) was found between participants’ QoL and the complication numbers, age, residency, TIA and attack numbers. Conclusions: Most ischemic stroke patients had poor overall QoL and poor QoL with vision, self-care, energy, and mood.

Maintaining a gluten-free diet is associated with quality of life in youths with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease

AimConflicting findings have been reported on whether in youths, the double diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and celiac disease (CD) substantially impacts quality of life QoL, compared to subjects with T1D only.MethodsIn this study, 86 youths with double diagnosis and their parents were compared to 167 subjects with T1D only. QoL was assessed through the KINDL questionnaire. Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies and dietary interviews evaluated the degree of maintaining a gluten-free diet (GFD).ResultsWe found that having CD in addition to T1D has little effect on overall QoL. However, analysis of the degree of maintaining GFD revealed significantly lower total QoL scores in groups with T1D + CD not strictly maintaining GFD compared to T1D only (p = 0.0014). The multivariable linear regression model confirmed the importance of maintaining GFD on QoL in subjects (p = 0.0066) and parents (p = 0.023).ConclusionThe coexistence of T1D and CD and the adoption of a GFD resulted in poor QoL levels, as in youth as in their parents, when difficulties implementing the GFD are present. Psychological support should consider the importance of maintaining GFD not only to prevent potential complications in the future but also to improve actual QoL in different subdomains.

Definition of the Post-COVID syndrome using a symptom-based Post-COVID score in a prospective, multi-center, cross-sectoral cohort of the German National Pandemic Cohort Network (NAPKON)

PurposeThe objective examination of the Post-COVID syndrome (PCS) remains difficult due to heterogeneous definitions and clinical phenotypes. The aim of the study was to verify the functionality and correlates of a recently developed PCS score.MethodsThe PCS score was applied to the prospective, multi-center cross-sectoral cohort (in- and outpatients with SARS-CoV-2 infection) of the "National Pandemic Cohort Network (NAPKON, Germany)". Symptom assessment and patient-reported outcome measure questionnaires were analyzed at 3 and 12 months (3/12MFU) after diagnosis. Scores indicative of PCS severity were compared and correlated to demographic and clinical characteristics as well as quality of life (QoL, EQ-5D-5L).ResultsSix hundred three patients (mean 54.0 years, 60.6% male, 82.0% hospitalized) were included. Among those, 35.7% (215) had no and 64.3% (388) had mild, moderate, or severe PCS. PCS severity groups differed considering sex and pre-existing respiratory diseases. 3MFU PCS worsened with clinical severity of acute infection (p = .011), and number of comorbidities (p = .004). PCS severity was associated with poor QoL at the 3MFU and 12MFU (p < .001).ConclusionThe PCS score correlated with patients’ QoL and demonstrated to be instructive for clinical characterization and stratification across health care settings. Further studies should critically address the high prevalence, clinical relevance, and the role of comorbidities.Trail registration numberThe cohort is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov under NCT04768998.

Measures of health-related quality of life in PCOS women: a cross sectional study from Saudi Arabia.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine-gynecologic disorder affecting women of childbearing age. It has a wide range of clinical manifestations, including menstrual irregularity, infertility, hirsutism, acne, and obesity. Studies have confirmed that PCOS can significantly reduce a patient's health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The pathophysiology of PCOS is poorly understood, but it is believed to be caused by the interaction of several factors. Moreover, there is a lack of information about HRQoL among PCOS women in Saudi Arabia. This study aims to assess the HRQoL of PCOS patients by using the Arabic Version of the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Health-Related Quality of life Questionnaire (AR-PCOSQ) in Riyadh city. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 281 women in Riyadh city using the translated questionnaire (AR-PCOSQ) to explore PCOS quality of life among Saudi females. The eligibility criteria were Saudi female who had been diagnosed with PCOS, living in Riyadh city, aged 18 and above, and willing to participate. The sample size was estimated using the 10-events-per variable rule for prediction models (REF). Informed consent was taken from all participants and a Google Form was used to create the survey and collect data. The higher score represents poor QOL. However, the analysis revealed that higher scores of the weight-related QOL had the greatest impact on patients' quality of life in older age groups, including women aged 26 to 35 (beta = 0.143, 95% CI, 0.023 to 0.304, p-value = 0.046) and women aged > 35 (beta = 0.229, 95% CI, 0.039 to 0.428, p = 0.011). Other domains of QOL, such as emotions, body hair, infertility, and menstrual problems, were not significantly predicted by any of the women's demographic characteristics. The findings revealed that PCOS-related conditions such as weight problems, menstrual irregularity, and infertility were associated with a reduction in quality of life.

Comprehensive assessment of nutritional and functional status of patients with ulcerative colitis and their impact on quality of life.

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are likely to have poor nutritional intake and increased gut losses. This study was designed to study the prevalence and predictors of nutritional deficiencies in patients with UC and their impact on thequality of life (QOL). A prospective study was conducted among consenting patients with UC (cases) and healthy relatives of the cases (controls) visiting a university teaching hospital. They were assessed for clinical, demographic, endoscopic (Mayo score) and histological profile (Robart's score). They were assessed for thepresence of macronutrient and micronutrient deficiency, anthropometry, functional status (muscle strength by dynamometer and sit-to-stand test) and thequality of life (short inflammatory bowel disease questionnaire [SIBDQ]). A SIBDQ score of ≤ 50 was considered poor QOL. We studied 126 cases and 57 healthy controls (age [mean ± SD] 37.7 ± 13.2years vs. 34.40 ± 11.05years; [p = 0.10] females [38.1% vs. 38.7%]; p = 0.94). Cases more often were underweight (28% vs. 3.5%; p < 0.001), had low mid arm circumference (45% vs. 12%; p < 0.0001), lower functional status in the form of weaker hand grip strength (67% vs. 45.6%; p = 0.007) and weaker lower limb strength (80% vs. 42%; p < 0.0001). Cases more often hadthe evidence of macronutrient deficiencies: total serum protein deficiency (31% vs. 3.5%; p < 0.0001), serum albumin deficiency (25.4% vs. 0.00%; p < 0.0001) and cholesterol deficiency (63% vs. 28%; p < 0.0001). Micronutrient deficiencies were highly prevalent among cases: calcium (44%), phosphate (21%), magnesium (11%), zinc (76%), iron (87%), folate (16%), vitamin B12 (10%) and vitamin D (81%). Most cases had a poor quality of life (85/126; 67.5%). Factors associated with poor QOL were low hemoglobin, serum albumin, zinc and vitamin D levels and histologically active disease. On multi-variate analysis, low vitamin D levels (odds ratio [OR] = 6.1; 95%confidence interval [CI]: 1.9-19.7) and histologically active disease (OR = 4.0; 95%CI: 1.6-9.9) were identified as independent predictors of poor QOL. Macronutrient deficiency, micronutrient deficiency, lower functional status and poorer QOL are highly prevalent among patients with UC. The independent predictors of poor QOL were histologically active disease and low serum vitamin D levels. Identifying and correcting the deficiencies may help in improving the QOL of patients with UC.

Quality of Life in Patients with Phenylketonuria: A Systematic Review.

The impact of phenylketonuria (PKU) on Quality of life (QoL) has been a topic of interest in recent research. This article reviews current researches on the impact of PKU on QoL. The review examines factors that may influence QoL, such as age, metabolic control, and treatment adherence. In this systematic review study, relevant articles were identified using a search strategy built with the keywords phenylketonuria, PKU, or hyperphenylalaninemia (or their synonyms) and QoL in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases. After identifying the articles, duplicates, reviews, scientific abstracts, articles published in languages other than English, and non relevant studies were excluded. The search strategy identified 951 records from databases, and after excluding duplicates, irrelevant studies, and those published in non English languages, 26 records were left that contained data on 1816 patients with PKU/hyperphenylalaninemia. The studies included both children/adolescents and adults. Overall, the studies found that the QoL of PKU patients was comparable to normative data, but some aspects such as emotional health and school functioning were lower. Metabolic control was found to significantly correlate with QoL. Younger patients and men had better QoL in several studies, while late treated patients and those with lower education had worse outcomes. It is concluded that QOL in patients with PKU is similar to the general population. However, given the chronic nature of the condition, it is important to pay special attention to their QoL. Poor QOL is associated with female gender, lower education, older age, and poor metabolic control.

Effects of Intra-Articular Platelet Rich Plasma on Clinical Outcomes in Knee Osteoarthritis

Background and Aim: With increasing frequency, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparations have been used to treatcartilage lesions to regenerate tissue homeostasis and retard the progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The aimof our research was to study the effectiveness of intra-articular PRP injections in early-stage OA patients and toevaluate the clinical outcome and QOL at 6 months.Material and Methods: Present study was conducted on 80 patients at tertiary care institute of Gujarat for thePeriod of 1 year. Intraarticular administration of PRP was done by injecting 5 mL of platelet concentrate in thesupra-patellar pouch through supero-lateral approach with a 22-gauge needle. The patients were followed upfor reduction in pain, reduction in stiffness and improvement in physical function in accordance with WOMACscoring system on day 0 and at the end of 6th week, 3rd and 6th months and QOL in accordance with WHOQOLquestionnaire before PRP therapy and at the end of 6th month.Results: In our study of 80 patients 26 had very poor, 23 had poor and 1 had neither poor nor good QOL beforePRP injection evaluated by WHOQOL. At 6 months post PRP therapy 5 had very good, 59 had good, 15 hadneither good nor poor and 1 had poor QOL which showed highly significant improvement in QOL.Conclusion: Intra-articular injection of autologous PRP is a safe, cheap, easy to prepare and use, and has atherapeutic role in early knee OA. Hence, PRP therapy can be used in management of early stage knee OA toprovide relief from symptoms and to improve QOL with negligible complication, low cost and ultimately withgood results.

Comparing Voice Related Quality of Life scores between fenestrated and speaking valve cannula users

Background: Tracheostomy is a procedure that aims to maintain the airway so that air can enter the lungs and bypass the upper airway. Tracheostomy causes physiological changes, especially in terms of communication, which leads to reduced voice-related quality of life. Fenestrated tracheal cannula and speaking valve can assist patients in generating voice.&#x0D; Objective: To compare the V-RQOL scores of the fenestrated tracheal cannula and speaking valve users.&#x0D; Methods: Analytic observational study using a cross-sectional design. Data collection was done through interviews with the V-RQOL questionnaire guide. The study was conducted in September-December 2022 at the THTBKL Polyclinic of Dr. Mohammad Hoesin Hospital Palembang. Data were analyzed with IBM SPSS 26.&#x0D; Results: 42 patients were using tracheal cannula, with 21 patients each with a fenestrated and speaking valve tracheal cannula. Patients with fenestrated tracheal cannula had lower quality of life in the physical, social, and total domains than those in the speaking valve group (poor QoL in the physical domain: 66.67% vs. 9.52%; social domain: 85.71% vs. 57.14%; total domain: 76.19% vs. 4.76%; p&lt;0.001). From the multivariate analysis, the tracheal cannula type influenced the patient's quality of life was (p&lt;0.001). The probability of someone with a fenestrated tracheal cannula will experience a poor QoL is 76.2%, while speaking valve is 4.7%.&#x0D; Conclusion: The quality of life of patients with a fenestrated type of tracheal cannula is significantly lower than that of speaking valve tracheal cannula users in both the physical, social, and total domains as measured by the V-RQOL.