Components Of Quality Of Life Research Articles

Breaking the silence: the role of sexual communication on quality of life in women with cervical cancer

IntroductionCervical cancer (CC) and its treatments impact various dimensions of quality of life (QoL), including physical, psychological, and sexual functioning. Sexual health, a crucial QoL aspect, is often compromised, highlighting the necessity for open sexual communication.Materials and methodsThis study involved 60 women diagnosed with stage IIb-IIIa CC. The 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) was used to measure physical and psychological components of QoL, the Female Sexual Function Index-6 (FSFI-6) to assess its sexual component, and the Sexual Communication Self-Efficacy Scale (SCSES) to diagnose communication confidence. Self-administered questions gauged patient-provider sexual communication. The results include quotes from participants, providing additional insight.ResultsSexual communication self-efficacy and patient-provider communication correlated significantly with QoL components. Only 23.33% discussed sexual issues with their doctors. Participants’ experiences highlighted the impact of cancer on sexuality and the need for tailored support.DiscussionPost-diagnosis psychosexual changes emphasize the importance of communication in renegotiating sexual identity and needs. Effective communication is associated with improved QoL, highlighting the role of healthcare professionals in addressing psychosexual issues. Integrating PLISSIT and BETTER models provides a comprehensive approach to sexual communication in the cancer context.ConclusionThe study demonstrates the importance of sexual communication self-efficacy in QoL of CC patients and highlights the need for healthcare professionals to include sexual communication education in cancer care.

Breaking the silence: the role of sexual communication on quality of life in women with cervical cancer

IntroductionCervical cancer (CC) and its treatments impact various dimensions of quality of life (QoL), including physical, psychological, and sexual functioning. Sexual health, a crucial QoL aspect, is often compromised, highlighting the necessity for open sexual communication.Materials and methodsThis study involved 60 women diagnosed with stage IIb-IIIa CC. The 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) was used to measure physical and psychological components of QoL, the Female Sexual Function Index-6 (FSFI-6) to assess its sexual component, and the Sexual Communication Self-Efficacy Scale (SCSES) to diagnose communication confidence. Self-administered questions gauged patient-provider sexual communication. The results include quotes from participants, providing additional insight.ResultsSexual communication self-efficacy and patient-provider communication correlated significantly with QoL components. Only 23.33% discussed sexual issues with their doctors. Participants’ experiences highlighted the impact of cancer on sexuality and the need for tailored support.DiscussionPost-diagnosis psychosexual changes emphasize the importance of communication in renegotiating sexual identity and needs. Effective communication is associated with improved QoL, highlighting the role of healthcare professionals in addressing psychosexual issues. Integrating PLISSIT and BETTER models provides a comprehensive approach to sexual communication in the cancer context.ConclusionThe study demonstrates the importance of sexual communication self-efficacy in QoL of CC patients and highlights the need for healthcare professionals to include sexual communication education in cancer care.

Can a six-week Swedish massage reduce mood disorders and enhance the quality of life in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis? A randomized control clinical trial

IntroductionThere is a limited amount of research specifically focusing on the effects of Swedish massage on mood disorders and the quality of life (QOL) among individuals with MS, emphasizing the need for further investigation. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effects of a 6-week Swedish massage on the quality of life, stress, anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue, spasticity, and sleep quality in MS patients. MethodsThis randomized controlled trial involved 70 MS patients who were divided into two groups. The massage group underwent two 50-minute sessions of whole-body Swedish massage per week for six weeks, while the usual treatment group maintained their regular medical care routine. Outcomes were Short Form-36 (SF-36) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI-P), and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). These measurements were taken before and after the massage intervention. ResultsThe massage group demonstrated significant improvements in QOL and its components compared to the usual treatment group (Hedge's g = 0.53 for QOL, ranging from 0.31 to 0.58 for QOL components; p < 0.001). Participants in the massage group also reported significantly lower levels of stress (Hedge's g = 0. 80), anxiety (Hedge's g = 0.47), and depression (Hedge's g = 0.70) than those in the usual treatment group (p < 0.001). Additionally, the massage group had lower levels of pain, fatigue, and spasticity, and better sleep quality compared to the usual treatment group (p < 0.05). ConclusionSwedish massage can be considered a valuable complementary and alternative treatment alongside conventional medicine for individuals with MS.

Combined Effects of Physical Activity and Diet on Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The purpose of our systematic review was to examine the effects of any physical activity/exercise intervention combined with any diet/nutrition intervention on any biological/biochemical index, quality of life (QoL), and depression in breast, lung, colon and rectum, prostate, stomach, and liver cancer patients and/or cancer survivors. A systematic review and meta-analysis were undertaken, using PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook. The systematic review protocol can be found in the PROSPERO database; registration number: CRD42023481429. We found moderate-quality evidence that a combined intervention of physical activity/exercise and nutrition/diet reduced body mass index, body weight, fat mass, insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, C-reactive protein, triglycerides, and depression, while it increased high-density lipoprotein, the physical component of QoL, and general functional assessment of cancer therapy. We conclude that a combined intervention of physical activity/exercise and diet/nutrition may decrease body weight, fat mass, insulin levels, and inflammation, and improve lipidemic profile, the physical component of QoL, and depression in cancer patients and survivors. These outcomes indicate a lower risk for carcinogenesis; however, their applicability depends on the heterogeneity of the population and interventions, as well as the potential medical treatment of cancer patients and survivors.

Correlation of postural stability with pain, disability and quality of life among patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunction- A cross-sectional study

Context-Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction accounts for altered postural stability which can cause a continuously intense pain level and range of disabilities. AimTo investigate the correlation of postural stability with pain, disability & QOL among sufferers of sacroiliac joint dysfunction. SettingThis cross-sectional research was undertaken at Rehabilitation Centre, Jamia Hamdard University. MethodA total of fifty participants were recruited using sample of convenience according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. After obtaining informed consent, three pain provocative tests and one motion palpation test were used to determine sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Humac balance master system (CSMi USB powered, Stoughton, USA), Visual analogue scale (VAS), modified Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) & WHO QOL-BREF (US version) were used to assess postural stability, pain, disability & Quality of life (QOL) respectively. Data analysis was done for correlation by SPSS version 24.0. ResultStrong positive correlations were found between reaction time, VAS (r = 0.791) and modified ODI score (r = 0.576) and weak positive correlations between eyes closed solid surface (ECSS) component of modified clinical test of sensory interaction & balance with VAS (r = 0.333) and with modified ODI score (r = 0.304) and eyes open foam surface (EOFS) component with environmental component of QOL (r = 0.287). There were negative correlations between reaction time, physical health (r = −0.413), psychological health (r = −0.375), social relations (r = −0.305), and environment (r = −0.379) parameters of QOL. ConclusionAccording to the findings of the study, there were positive correlations of reaction time with pain and disability and negative correlations with QOL. Awareness of clinicians regarding the altered postural stability can help in improvising the assessment and treatment protocols for patients of SI dysfunction.

Delayed Antibody Response in the Acute Phase of Infection Is Associated with a Lower Mental Component of Quality of Life in Survivors of Severe and Critical COVID-19.

Background: The long-term sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) significantly affects quality of life (QoL) in disease survivors. Delayed development of the adaptive immune response is associated with more severe disease and a worse prognosis in COVID-19. The effects of delayed immune response on COVID-19 sequelae and QoL are unknown. Methods: We conducted a prospective study to assess the relationship between the delayed antibody response in the acute phase of infection in naïve unvaccinated patients suffering from severe or critical COVID-19 and their QoL 12 months after hospital discharge. The 12-item Short Form Survey (SF-12) questionnaire was used for assessment of QoL. The SF-12 evaluates both mental and physical components of QoL, incorporating a mental component score (MCS-12) and a physical component score (PCS-12). A delayed antibody response was defined as testing negative for anti-spike SARS-CoV-2 antibodies at the time of hospital admission. Results: The study included 274 patients (154 men and 120 women). Of the enrolled patients, 144 had a delayed immune response. These patients had a significantly lower MCS-12 (p = 0.002), but PCS-12 (p = 0.397) was not significantly different at the 12-month follow-up compared to patients with positive anti-spike SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The MCS-12 at the time of follow-up was negatively associated with delayed antibody response irrespective of possible confounders (p = 0.006; B = 3.609; ηp2 = 0.035; 95% CI = 1.069-6.150). An MSC-12 below 50 points at the time of follow-up was positively associated with delayed antibody response (p = 0.001; B = 1.092; OR = 2.979; 95% CI = 1.554-5.711). Conclusions: This study confirmed that, in patients with severe and critical COVID-19, a negative result for anti-spike SARS-CoV-2 antibodies at the time of hospital admission is associated with a lower mental component of QoL in unvaccinated patients naïve to COVID-19 one year after hospital discharge.

East Meets West: Effect of Acupuncture on Lactation and Maternal Quality of Life.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of acupuncture as part of a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment plan on lactation and maternal well-being in pump-dependent mothers of hospitalized neonates during the first 30 days after delivery. Study Design: This single-center study was conducted in a level IV regional neonatal intensive care unit with access to integrative health services. Sixty-six mothers were prospectively enrolled in two nonparallel groups: (1) Standard lactation support and (2) standard lactation support augmented with acupuncture. Daily pump volumes were documented. Participants completed a quality-of-life (QOL) survey at baseline and neonatal day of life 30. A linear model was constructed, adjusting for increased milk production over time. Results: Acupuncture was associated with increased milk production at all time points: Day 10 (p = 0.0002), day 14 (p < 0.0001), day 21 (p < 0.0001), and day 30 (p < 0.0001). Acupuncture was associated with an increase in three of five QOL components: psychological/child's health (p = 0.0006), family/friend relationship (p = 0.0006), and health/functioning (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Mothers receiving acupuncture reported enhanced milk supply and improved QOL. The limited sample size restricts the broad applicability of the results; nonetheless, this study paves the way for further research on the advantages of merging Eastern and Western treatments to enhance human lactation.

The association between quality of life and diabetes: the Bushehr Elderly Health Program

Background and objectiveConsidering the importance of diabetes and its increased prevalence with aging, this study aimed to evaluate the association between diabetes status and quality of life (QOL) and the determining factors in individuals over 60.MethodsTwo thousand three hundred seventy-five individuals including 819 (34.5%) with diabetes, aged 69.4 ± 6.4, from Bushehr Elderly Health Program (BEHP) were enrolled. We categorized the participants as non-diabetic, controlled diabetic, and poorly controlled diabetic. The QOL was assessed using the SF-12 questionnaire. The physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summaries of QOL were estimated. We compared the SF-12 domains and components between the categories using ANOVA. Further, the association of diabetes status with PCS and MCS was assessed after adjustment for possible confounders including age, sex, depression, cognitive impairment, physical activity, and other relevant factors using linear regression analysis.ResultsIndividuals with diabetes had lower PCS (40.9 ± 8.8 vs. 42.7 ± 8.6, p-value < 0.001), and MCS scores (45.0 ± 10.2 vs. 46.4 ± 9.4, p-value < 0.001) compared to participants without diabetes. No significant differences were observed in PCS or MCS scores between controlled or poorly controlled individuals with diabetes. Diabetes status was associated with PCS and MCS scores in univariable analysis. Regarding physical component of QOL, after adjusting for other confounders, poorly controlled diabetes was significantly associated with PCS [beta: -1.27 (-2.02, -0.52)]; some other determinants include depression [-7.66 (-8.51, -6.80)], male sex [3.90 (3.24,4.57)], and good physical activity [1.87 (1.17,2.57)]. As for the mental component, controlled diabetes was significantly associated with MCS [-1.17 (-2.13, -0.22)]; other contributing factors include depression [-14.35 (-15.34, -13.37)], male sex [1.97 (1.20,2.73)], good physical activity [-1.55 (-2.35, -0.75)], and smoking [-1.42 (-2.24, -0.59)]. BMI had an inverse association with PCS [-0.19 (-0.26, -0.13)] and a direct association with MCS [0.14 (0.07,0.21)].ConclusionIndividuals with diabetes exhibited reduced QOL scores. Upon adjusting for other variables, it was found that uncontrolled diabetes correlated with decreased PCS scores, whereas controlled diabetes was linked to lower MCS scores. Factors such as depression and being female were identified as contributors to diminished QOL in both physical and mental aspects. These results have the potential to guide healthcare decision-making, facilitating the creation of tailored interventions aimed at improving the QOL for individuals with diabetes, with a specific focus on women and depression.

Symptomatology and Quality of Life of Older People With HIV and Comorbid Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases From an HIV Clinic in Birmingham, Alabama.

Psychological symptomatology and quality of life (QoL) have been studied in older people with HIV (PWH) and those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), respectively, but there is a dearth of studies in older PWH with COPD. Our study compared depressive symptoms, anxiety, and QoL between older PWH with and without COPD using data from an HIV clinic in Birmingham, Alabama, from January 2018 to February 2020. Data on depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), anxiety (Patient Health Questionnaire-5 Anxiety), and QoL (EuroQoL-5 Dimension) were analyzed. Among 690 PWH aged 50 years or older, 102 individuals (14.8%) had COPD. Significant differences were found between the two groups in depressive symptoms and components of QoL (e.g., mobility, self-care, usual activities, and pain/discomfort), but not in anxiety and general health. Experiencing COPD may worsen depressive symptomatology and QoL in older PWH, highlighting the need for tailored health care and research for this population.

Does intradialytic oral nutrition impact hemodialysis patients' quality of life, appetite, and safety? A pilot study of a crossover clinical trial.

Introduction: due to the catabolic characteristics of hemodialysis (HD), patients should consume foods or supplements during this treatment to meet their energy requirements and maintain a neutral nitrogen balance; however, there are some outcomes in which the effect of intradialytic oral nutrition (ION) is scarcely known. Objectives: this study aims to evaluate the effect of two types of ION (liquid and solid) on Quality of Life (QoL), appetite, and safety in HD patients. Methods: a pilot randomized, crossover clinical trial was performed in 18 patients on chronic HD. One group received ION for 18 HD sessions, after the crossover continued for 18 more sessions in the control group, and vice versa. We recorded QoL, appetite, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and intradialytic hypotension (IH) events. Results: clinical improvement was observed for most QoL components. Regardless of the consistency of supplementation, SBP increased to 4.10 mmHg. Both study groups reported a "very good-to-good" appetite. Conclusion: favorable clinical changes were observed in QoL scores during the study. Five of six IH events were reported for patients in the ION group, and SBP increased within the safe range (≤ 10 mmHg); appetite remained stable in both groups. Therefore, we concluded that this strategy, regardless of implementation consistency, is safe to be used in stable patients.

THE INFLUENCE OF REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH DISORDERS ON THE LIFE QUALITY OF MEN

The purpose of the publication is to conduct a medical and sociological study of changes in the quality of life components of men diagnosed with reproductive health disorders.&#x0D; Materials and Methods. The publication is based on the results of a medical and sociological study conducted among 810 men. The universal and standardized Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 questionnaire was used to study changes in quality of life components. The results obtained reliably reflect the impact of the disease on changes in the components of quality of life.&#x0D; Results. Final calculations of the main components of life quality of men have found significant differences in the values of the "Psychological component of health" scales between the main group, which had a value of 12628.0 conventional units, and the control group, which had a value of 17542.0 conventional units. The control group had a higher value, which was 38.9% higher than the main group. Only 4.4% of differences were found in the components of "Physical Health" between the main (9747.4 conventional units) and control (10178.5 conventional units) groups. After calculating the data, it was discovered that there was a difference of 23.9% between the experimental group (22375.4 conventional units) and the control group (27720.5 conventional units).&#x0D; Discussion. Based on the abovementioned information, it is reasonable to conclude that men who experience reproductive health disorders frequently face negative impacts on their life quality, particularly on their psychological well-being. It can result in emotional disorders and a decrease in energy levels, leading to fatigue and exhaustion. The scientific evidence suggests few similar studies dedicated to gender-specific changes in the life quality of men with reproductive disorders. The obtained results on changes in the main components of the quality of life under the influence of reproductive health disorders become a valuable informational basis for the development of preventive measures against these disorders.&#x0D; Conclusions. According to the results of a medical and sociological study, changes in the components of life quality of men were identified in individuals diagnosed with reproductive health disorders. The study confirmed that the disorders negatively affect physical (4.4%) and psychological (38.9%) components of life quality. The overall calculations confirm the ability of reproductive health disorders to reduce the life quality of men by almost a quarter (23.9%).

Quality of life for people with psychiatric disabilities employed in extended employment programs in two Arab towns in Israel: an exploratory study.

This study aims to examine the quality of life (QOL) for people with psychiatric disabilities who are engaged in extended employment programs (homogeneous versus heterogeneous) in the Arab-populated Triangle Area of Israel. The homogeneous program participants are exclusively Arab while the heterogeneous program includes both Arabs and Jews. Quantitative research study of 104 adults with psychiatric disabilities engaged in two communal extended employment programs. Participants completed demographic (age (years), gender, marital status (married, widowed/separated, married, single), religion (Muslim, Jewish, Christian), dichotomous nationality variable (Jewish/Arab), and years of education) and employment questionnaires (length of time in the employment program, number of working days/h and salary satisfaction); SF 12 Scale; and The Personal Wellbeing Index questionnaire. Two-sample T-Test, exploratory factor analysis and multiple linear regressions were conducted for tracking the differences between participants in homogeneous and heterogeneous programs. A significant difference was found between the programs in two QOL components, insofar as satisfaction with the standard of living, together with health satisfaction were rated higher for participants in the heterogeneous program than for their homogeneous program counterparts. Furthermore, the results indicate that physical health and gender were the most important variables in explaining QOL in both programs, while the employment variables were not significant. Since the research findings show that the employment-related-items aren't significant in predicting the employees' QOL, the definition and suitability of extended employment environments as a mental health service must be reexamined. Cultural elements may also have an impact on QOL when the programs are located in a traditional town, with gender playing a key role. The family's role is pivotal in traditional societies, influencing an individual's ability to participate in employment programs and the support they receive. In patriarchal societies, there can be added pressure on men with psychiatric disabilities to conform to societal expectations. Given the general lack of health awareness in Arab communities, there is a need to develop additional projects or incorporate physical health improvement as a rehabilitation goal when working with individuals with psychiatric disabilities, regardless of the type of community rehabilitation program.

Sleep quality and associated factors among patients with chronic kidney disease in Nigeria: a cross-sectional study

ObjectivePoor sleep quality adversely affects the overall well-being and outcomes of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, it has not been well studied in Africans with CKD. We determined...

Sleep Quality and Self-Stigma Mediate the Association Between Problematic Use of Social Media and Quality of Life Among People With Schizophrenia in Taiwan: A Longitudinal Study.

Problematic use of social media (PUSM) may affect sleep quality and self-stigma in people with schizophrenia and consequently reduce their quality of life (QoL). This longitudinal study investigated if sleep quality and self-stigma mediated relationships between PUSM and QoL. One-hundred-and-ninety-three outpatients with schizophrenia were recruited from a psychiatric center in Taiwan from April 2019 to August 2021 and participated in a longitudinal study at intervals of three months between measurements. QoL was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire Brief Version; sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index; self-stigma using the Self-Stigma Scale-Short; and PUSM using the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale. Via SPSS 20.0, general estimating equation models assessed temporal associations between variables. Via R software, mediating effects of self-stigma and sleep quality were examined through Monte Carlo simulations with 20,000 repetitions. Mean scores of physical, psychological, social and environmental QoL ranged from 11.86 to 13.02. Mean scores of sleep quality and self-stigma were 9.1±4.5 and 2.2±0.8, respectively. Sleep quality and self-stigma were directly related to QoL (p<0.001) and mediated indirect relationships between PUSM and all components of QoL with a range of 95% confidence intervals spanning from -0.0591 to -0.0107 for physical QoL; -0.0564 to -0.0095 for psychological QoL; -0.0292 to -0.0035 for social QoL; and -0.0357 to -0.0052 for environmental QoL. Sleep quality and self-stigma mediated relationships between PUSM and QoL in people with schizophrenia. Developing interventions targeting PUSM, sleep, and self-stigma may help improve QoL in people with schizophrenia.

Effectiveness of hybrid comprehensive telerehabilitation in heart failure patients with permanent atrial fibrillation - subanalysis of the TELEREH-HF RCT

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) negatively impacts physical fitness and quality of life (QoL). Little is known about efficacy of hybrid comprehensive telerehabilitation (HCTR) in heart failure (HF) patients with AF. Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess safety and effectiveness of HCTR in HF patients with permanent AF. Methods The present analysis formed part of TELEREH-HF multicenter, randomized trial that enrolled 850 HF patients (NYHA I-III, LVEF ≤ 40%). Patients were randomized 1:1 to HCTR plus usual care (UC) or UC alone. Patients underwent either an HCTR (1 week in hospital and 8 weeks at home, five times weekly) or UC with observation. The effectiveness of HCTR was assessed by changes in peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak), workload duration (t) in cardiopulmonary exercise test and quality of life (QoL) based on Medical Outcome Survey Short Form 36 Questionnaire (SF-36). Measurements were made before and after intervention/observation. Results There were 73 patients with permanent AF in HCTR group and 72 patients with permanent AF in UC group. HCTR resulted in a significant improvement in VO2peak and workload duration. We did not observe these favorable results in the UC group. In the HCTR group, there was a significantly greater improvement in physical component of QoL than in the UC group. All results are presented in Table 1. In neither group were there deaths nor major adverse events. Conclusion In HF patients with permanent AF, hybrid comprehensive telerehabilitation is safe and resulted in a significant improvement in physical capacity and physical component of QoL.

Development and validation of a universal esophageal patient-reported outcome measure: The Cleveland Clinic Esophageal Questionnaire (CEQ)

ObjectiveCurrently, there is no validated patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) applicable to all esophageal diseases. Our objective was to create a psychometrically robust, validated universal esophageal PROM that can also objectively assess patients’ quality of life (QoL). MethodsThe pilot PROM constructed based on expert opinions, literature review, and previous unpublished institutional research had 27 items covering 8 domains. It was completed by 30 patients in the outpatient clinic followed by a structured debriefing interview, which allowed for refining the PROM. The final PROM: Cleveland Clinic Esophageal Questionnaire (CEQ) included 34 items across 6 domains (Dysphagia, Eating, Pain, Reflux & Regurgitation, Dyspepsia, Dumping), each accompanied by a corresponding QoL component. Further psychometric assessment of the PROM was conducted by evaluating (1) acceptability, (2) construct validity, (3) reliability, and (4) responsiveness. ResultsFive hundred forty-six unique patients (median 63.7 years [54.3-71.7], 53% male [287], 86% White) completed CEQ at >90% completion within 5 minutes. Construct validity was demonstrated by differentiating scores across esophageal cancer (n = 146), achalasia (n = 170), hiatal hernia (n = 160), and other diagnoses (n = 70). Internal reliability (Cronbach alpha 0.83-0.89), and test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients 0.63-0.85) were strong. Responsiveness was demonstrated through CEQ domains improving for 53 patients who underwent surgery for achalasia or hiatal hernia (Cohen d 0.86-2.59). ConclusionsWe have constructed a psychometrically robust, universal esophageal PROM that allows concise, consistent, objective quantification of symptoms and their effect on the patient. The CEQ is valuable in prognostication and tracking of longitudinal outcomes in both benign and malignant esophageal diseases.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of non-pharmacological interventions on quality of life in adults with multiple sclerosis

BackgroundMultiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic debilitating disease that targets the central nervous system. Globally it is estimated that 2.8 million people live with MS (2018) and as there is no known cure; therefore, identifying methods to increase a patient’s quality of life (QoL) is of considerable importance. Non-pharmacological interventions are a viable and effective option to increase QoL in patients with MS, however, to date, the literature lacks a complete systematic review of these interventions.MethodsA literature search was conducted for studies published up until March 4th 2022 in Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, The Cochrane Library, Medline, and Embase. Studies were included if they were randomized control trials (RCTs) assessing a non-pharmacological intervention in adults with MS and measured QoL using the MSQOL-54, SF-36 or MSQLI tools for at least two time points. Quality assessment of each study was completed as well as a review of publication bias. Where possible, meta-analysis was conducted using a random effects model and for other studies a qualitative synthesis was presented.ResultsThirty studies were included in the meta-analysis and eleven studies were summarized qualitatively. The pooled effects across all non-pharmacological interventions showed a modest improvement in both the physical and mental components of QoL, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.44 (95% CI 0.26–0.61) and 0.42 (95% CI 0.24–0.60), respectively. Non-pharmacological interventions based around a physical activity were found to be particularly effective in improving both the physical composite score (PCS) and mental composite score (MCS), with an SMD of 0.40 (95% CI 0.14–0.66) and 0.31 (95% CI 0.08–0.55), respectively. Interventions incorporating balance exercises presented a significant advantageous solution for improving QoL, with an SMD of 1.71 (95% CI 1.22, 2.20) and 1.63(95% CI 1.15–2.12) for PCS and MCS respectively.ConclusionsThis systematic review and meta-analysis identified that non-pharmacological interventions can be an effective method of improving QoL in patients with MS, especially modalities with a physical activity component and balance interventions.

Факторы риска и качество жизни женщин в периодах пери- и постменопаузы в городе Ереван, Армения

INTRODUCTION: Menopause is associated with various somatic, vasomotor, sexual and psychological symptoms that adversely affect the quality of life of women in peri- and postmenopausal periods. AIM: To assess the quality of life (QoL) of women in peri- and postmenopausal periods, to identify factors producing a negative effect on him during these periods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: А cross-sectional study was conducted through a survey of 353 women above 40. To assess QoL, the SF 36 questionnaire was used. Sociodemographic factors and peculiarities of health status of the participants were considered risk factors. The data were introduced and analyzed using SPSS 23 statistical package. Statistical significance of the results was evaluated by Kruskal–Wallis test with the subsequent a posteriori analysis, and Mann–Whitney test. RESULTS: Peri- and post menopause had negative impact on the parameters of physical component of QoL and all its domains. Participants with regular menstruation had a reliably higher score of physical component of QoL compared to peri- and postmenopausal women (p &lt; 0.001). The scores of physical component of QoL were higher in women at the age under 50 compared to women of older age groups. The scores were higher in women with higher and secondary special education compared to participants with general secondary education (p &lt; 0.05). Higher scores of physical and psychological components of QoL were recorded in working women compared to the retired group (p &lt; 0.05). The parameters of psychological component of QoL were the highest among married and single women. Parameters of physical and mental components of QoL were higher in groups with the income above and at the level of the living minimum compared to those who reported the income below the minimum wage (p &lt; 0.001). A reliably higher scores of physical and mental components of QoL were recorded in participants with favorable microclimate in families compared to the group with an unfavorable one (p &lt; 0.01). A reliable relationship was found between the evaluation of the health and parameters of both components of QoL by the participants. Higher scores were recorded in women who evaluated their health as excellent and above average compared to all other groups (p &lt; 0.05). The presence of chronic diseases had a negative impact on both components of QoL. CONCLUSION: The factors producing negative effects on QoL of women in peri- and postmenopausal periods were the older age, general health status, low educational level, retirement, unfavorable family status and family microclimate, low family income.

Yoga vs. behavioral placebo for fatigue and quality of life among older cancer survivors.

12023 Background: Older cancer survivors consistently express the need for interventions to reduce fatigue and maintain quality of life (QOL). We previously showed that yoga, compared to standard care, effectively improved fatigue and QOL among older survivors. Whether yoga is superior to a rigorous behavioral placebo for improving fatigue and QOL in older survivors is unknown. To examine the efficacy of yoga vs a behavioral placebo for improving fatigue and QOL in older survivors. Methods: Older cancer survivors (age 60+) 2-60 months post-treatment were randomized to receive Yoga for Cancer Survivors (YOCAS; 75-minute sessions 2x/week for 4 weeks) or a behavioral placebo (Survivorship Health Education – SHE; 75-minute sessions 2x/week for 4 weeks). The YOCAS intervention includes breathing exercises, yoga poses, and mindfulness activities. The SHE placebo includes education based on ASCO cancer survivorship recommendations. Fatigue and QOL (i.e., overall, physical, emotional, and functional) were assessed pre- and post-intervention with the Functional Assessment for Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F). The within-group and between-group intervention effects on fatigue were examined by 2-tailed t tests and ANCOVAs. Results: 173 older survivors were enrolled (91% women, mean age 67 [range=60-85], 90% White, 10% racial minority, 2.3% Hispanic, 71% breast cancer). On average, participants completed 6 in-person yoga sessions and 1 additional weekly, home-based yoga practice, for an average of 183 minutes of yoga/week with no intervention-related adverse events. There were significant between group differences on fatigue, where yoga participants reported significantly more improvement in fatigue than controls (1.6±0.9, p&lt;0.05). There were also significant between group differences on the emotional component of QOL, where yoga participants reported significant improvement in the emotional component of QOL but controls did not (0.8±0.4, p&lt;0.045). Moreover, there were statistical trends for between group differences on the physical and functional component of QOL, where yoga participants reported improvements in the physical (0.8±0.4, p&lt;0.063) and functional components of QOL (0.9±0.5, p&lt;0.089) but controls did not. There were significant between group differences on overall QOL, where yoga participants reported significant improvement in overall QOL but controls did not (3.8±1.4, p&lt;0.007). 94% of participants reported the intervention useful for symptom management and would recommend it to others. Conclusions: Results suggest that older survivors: 1) can safely utilize yoga for treating side effects, 2) experience improvements in fatigue and QOL via yoga therapy, and 3) find yoga a useful treatment for side effects and recommend it to others. Future research is needed to confirm these results and increase uptake by older, and ethnically and racially diverse survivors. Clinical trial information: NCT02613364 .

INFLUENCE OF ACCOMPANYING GASTRODUODENAL PATHOLOGY ON CLINICAL SYMPTOMS AND QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC PANCREATITIS

SUMMARY. In spite of the considerable advance in the research of pancreatic pathology, clinical symptoms and syndromes, along with the life quality evaluation with the use of SF-36 and GSRS questionnaires of patients with chronic pancreatitis combined with comorbid pathology of gastroduodenal zone (GDZ) organs continues to be studied and substantiated insufficiently. The aim – to study the clinical symptoms and assess life quality using the SF-36 and GSRS questionnaires in the comorbidity of chronic pancreatitis with H. Pylori-associated chronic gastritis. Material and Methods. 30 outpatients with CP and 117 with CP in comorbidity with chronic gastritis (CG) associated with H. Pylori were examined. A combined assessment of clinical manifestations (symptoms/syndromes) of patients with CP and CP with H. Pylori-associated chronic gastritis was conducted. For the reliable assessment of life quality, groups of patients were compared: the control group, patients with CP and patients with comorbidity. The physical and psychological components were evaluated using the SF-36 questionnaire. Indicators of the life quality components of patients of both groups were also studied according to the scales of the GSRS questionnaire. Results. The clinical symptoms in the comorbidity of CP with accompanying gastroduodenal disorders had specific features compared to those in isolated CP: a smaller number of patients had a pain syndrome (93.3 % vs. 100.0 %); dyspepsia syndrome was found in all the patients with comorbid pathology (100.0 % vs. 86.7 %), a significantly larger number of such patients had nausea (63.3 % vs. 26.5 %), a feeling of heaviness (26.7 % vs. 18,8 %), diarrhea (33.3 % vs. 17.9 %), alternating diarrhea and constipation (26.7 % vs. 23.1 %), enteropancreatic and asthenoneurotic syndromes were detected with a slight advantage in patients with comorbidity – 72.6 % against 66.7 %, and 90.0 % against 83.8 %. It was found that the average total index of the physical component of patients with CP with comorbidity compared to that in the group of isolated CP according to the SF-36 questionnaire was found to be significantly lower: the difference between the values of the average total index of the physical component of life quality of the patients from the comparison groups was 10.42 points (11.2 %). Conclusion. It was established that the difference between the total indicators of the psychological component scales of the life quality according to the SF-36 questionnaire of the groups of patients with CP and patients with comorbidity is 9.71 (11.5 %), which proved that the psychological state of patients with CP with concomitant gastroduodenal changes was significantly worse. The total index of the GRSR scales in the group of patients with CP+GDC (gastroduodenal changes) is significantly higher than of the group with isolated CP – by 1.52 times, and this proved a significantly lower quality of life according to the state of gastroenterological syndromes of the GSRS questionnaire (р≤0.05).