SF-36 Health Survey Research Articles

The impact of vision impairment on vision-related quality of life of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

To investigate the validity and reliability of the Greek Impact of Vision Impairment Questionnaire (IVI) and to explore the predictors of vision-related quality of life (VRQoL) in individuals with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). About 191 patients completed the IVI and the SF-12 Health Survey, and were assessed on visual exams. A random group of 20 participants completed the IVI twice with a 2 weeks interval, to assess test-retest reliability. About 102 patients completed the IVI 1 year later in a follow-up examination. Rasch analysis was used to evaluate response category functioning, scale precision, unidimensionality, scale targeting and differential item functioning. Stepwise multiple linear regression analyses identified predictors of VRQoL. Test-retest reliability of IVI items was calculated from 0.86 to 0.98. The six response categories were merged into four to figure out disordered thresholds. Rasch analysis concluded in three scales: Mobility and Independence, Reading and Accessing Information, and Emotional Wellbeing. Regarding convergent validity, the IVI scores had significant associations with SF-12 components (ρ = 0.28-0.47) and measurements of visual acuity (ρ = 0.39-0.66). Worse VRQoL at 1 year follow-up was correlated with decline in distance and near VA. Distance VA and the SF-12 components were common predictors for all three subscales. The duration of disease was a significant predictor for the emotional subscale. The Greek IVI was found to assess AMD patients' perceptions of VRQoL in a valid, reliable and responsive to eyesight manner. VRQoL was mainly established by patients' distance VA and mental health.

Late results and health-related quality of life in patients after endovascular treatment for multiple intracranial aneurysms

Aim. To assess the results of endovascular treatment in patients with multiple intracranial aneurysms (MIA) in the late postoperative period according to health-related quality of life (HRQoL) concept. Materials and methods . 172 cases of patients having undergone endovascular MIA repair were examined. The evaluation of patient health-related quality of life was carried out using the SF-36 (The Short Form ( 36 ) Health Survey), the ICF (the International Classification of Functioning), and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Results . The complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage ( SAH ) appears in approximately 1,2% of cases in the late postoperative period. When assessing the health-related quality of life according to the SF-36 domains in patients with Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), the QoL showed a decrease in “Social Functioning” ( p = 0.03) . In patients with pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) a decrease was seen in “ Role-Physical Functioning” (RP) ( p = 0.004), while “General Health” (GH) ( p = 0.049), “Social Functioning” (SF) ( p = 0.005) and “Mental Health” (MH) ( p = 0.009) subscales also saw decreases. Having more than two inpatient surgical procedures is also associated with the health-related quality of life of patients ( p < 0.05). Assessment of activity with ICF showed the intensity of irregularities on the d4501 domain – “walking short distance” – depended on the existing SAH ( p < 0.05). Procedural complications affected the patient’s daily activities on the domains d4501 — “walking long distance” ( p = 0.03), and d640 — “doing household chores” ( p = 0.01). Conclusion . The assessment with ICF allows the specification of patient activity and participation in public life. The SF-36 scale provides additional information on the patients’ subjective perception of their condition. Considering the quality of life in the late postoperative period is not completely restored in all patients, ongoing rehabilitation measures, diagnostic cerebral angiographies and improvements in the surgery techniques are required.

HAND GRIP STRENGTH IS AN OBJECTIVE CORRELATE TO FUNCTIONAL IMPAIRMENT AND SYMPTOM BURDEN IN PATIENTS WITH COPD

SESSION TITLE: Obstructive Lung Disease Posters SESSION TYPE: Original Investigation Posters PRESENTED ON: October 18-21, 2020 PURPOSE: Hand grip strength (HGS) is a simple to obtain marker of functional status and associated with all-cause mortality in the general population. The value of HGS in the clinical assessment of COPD patients is not well defined. We sought to define the associations of phenotypic features of COPD with hand grip strength. METHODS: We performed interim, cross-sectional analysis of the observational cohort of individuals who participated in COPD phenotyping study at UCLA (Funding: Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA). One-hundred and seven patients with COPD completed questionnaires, spirometry, imaging, HGS measurement, and laboratory analysis. HGS was obtained from 3 sequential grip tests in each hand and highest single value was used. Values were normalized to previously reported norms for age and sex. The associations between grip strength with lung function, biomarkers, imaging, six-minute walk test (6MWT), symptom scores and quality of life indices were analyzed. 3-month follow-up including the number of reported exacerbations was available for 93 patients. RESULTS: After normalization, HGS was not associated with age, sex, height or BMI. In linear regression models, HGS was directly associated with percent predicted FEV1 (β = 0.24, p = 0.01), distance walked during 6MWT (β = 0.30, p < 0.01) and inversely associated with SGRQ-C score (β = -0.30, p < 0.01). Lower HGS was also associated with higher symptom burden by several other validated COPD-specific scores - CAT, BORG, VSAQ, with a trend towards higher mMRC (p = 0.57). Higher HGS was associated with better perceived health status and better health-related quality of life as quantified by SF-12 health survey. HGS was correlated with the presence of airway thickening by computed tomography but not presence, pattern or degree of emphysema. HGS was correlated with serum c-reactive protein, white blood cell count, eosinophil count but not fibrinogen, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio. HGS was not correlated with number of exacerbations in the year prior to enrollment or 3-month follow-up, forced vital capacity or use of supplemental oxygen. CONCLUSIONS: Hand grip strength is associated with functional limitation and COPD-specific symptoms but not correlated with number of exacerbations. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Hand grip strength is a simple, objective measure which may aid in identifying those individuals most heavily impacted by COPD in the stable state of the disease. DISCLOSURES: Advisory Committee Member relationship with Astra Zeneca Please note: $5001 - $20000 Added 04/15/2020 by Igor Barjaktarevic, source=Web Response, value=Consulting fee Advisory Committee Member relationship with GSK Please note: $5001 - $20000 Added 04/15/2020 by Igor Barjaktarevic, source=Web Response, value=Consulting fee Consultant relationship with Grifols Please note: $5001 - $20000 Added 04/15/2020 by Igor Barjaktarevic, source=Web Response, value=Consulting fee Advisory Committee Member relationship with Theravance and Mylan Please note: $5001 - $20000 Added 04/15/2020 by Igor Barjaktarevic, source=Web Response, value=Consulting fee Advisory Committee Member relationship with Verona Pharma Please note: $1001 - $5000 Added 04/15/2020 by Igor Barjaktarevic, source=Web Response, value=Consulting fee Consultant relationship with Boehringer Ingelheim Please note: $1001 - $5000 Added 04/15/2020 by Igor Barjaktarevic, source=Web Response, value=Consulting fee Consultant relationship with GE Healthcare Please note: $5001 - $20000 Added 04/15/2020 by Igor Barjaktarevic, source=Web Response, value=Consulting fee no disclosure on file for Marissa Dembek; No relevant relationships by Brett Dolezal, source=Web Response No relevant relationships by Daniel Hoesterey, source=Web Response No relevant relationships by William LeMaster, source=Web Response no disclosure on file for Randy Nguyen

Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma genetic testing: Psychological impact.

Genetic testing is recommended for all pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma tumor-affected patients and, if positive, for their relatives, who are at risk of developing tumors. This study aims to assess the previously unexamined psychological impact of genetic testing and identify factors associated with this impact. A nationwide sample of 103 individuals carrying succinate dehydrogenase mutations answered the Multidimensional Impact of Cancer Risk Assessment (MICRA) questionnaire plus two measures of general well-being (the SF-36 Health Survey and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale). Sociodemographic, clinical, and personality characteristics (the 5 personality factors and locus of control) were also assessed. Data were analyzed with bivariate and GLM univariate analyses. Genetic testing-related mean scores were 6.12 for Distress, 11.58 for Uncertainty, 10.61 for Positive experiences, and almost 30% of the sample displayed high MICRA global suffering. Tumor-affected participants whose neoplasia was identified through presymptomatic screening felt that the genetic test has made it easier to cope with their disease. Significant aspects associated with genetic-testing-related Distress and Uncertainty included higher levels of Neuroticism and Agreeableness. An interaction between having the neoplasia and having children was also associated with higher levels of Distress. Education and Conscientiousness were associated with Positive experiences. Affected mutation carriers presented lower global quality of life and higher anxiety and depression levels than healthy mutation carriers. Genetic testing's impact depends on individual characteristics. The identified characteristics can inform clinical practice regarding who might benefit from special care in genetic counseling. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

Psychometric Properties of the Polish Version of the 36-Item WHODAS 2.0 in Patients with Low Back Pain.

The World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) is considered by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be a useful tool for assessing the functioning and disability of the general population as well as the effectiveness of the applied interventions. Until this study, no data regarding the validity of the 36-item WHODAS 2.0 in chronic low back pain (LBP) in Poland have been explored. This study was conducted on 92 patients suffering from chronic LBP admitted to the rehabilitation ward. The Polish version of the 36-item WHODAS 2.0, the Sf-36 Health Survey (SF-36), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) questionnaires were applied to assess patients. The scale score reliability of the entire tool for the study population was very high. The Cronbach’s alpha test result for the entire scale was 0.92. For the overall result of the WHODAS 2.0, the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC1,2) was 0.928, which confirmed that the scale was consistent over time. The total result and the vast majority of domains of the 36-item WHODAS 2.0 correlated negatively with domains of the SF-36 questionnaire; thus, a higher WHODAS 2.0 score was associated with a lower score on the SF-36 questionnaire. We found that the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the total WHODAS 2.0 score in patients after rehabilitation for LBP was 4.87. Overall, the results indicated that the Polish version of the 36-item WHODAS is suitable for assessing health and disability status in patients with LBP.

The Effect of Functional Capacity Related Ergonomic Risk Factors on Quality of Life of People with Physical Disability

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the ergonomic risk factors and the problems of functional capacity and their effect on quality of life of people with physical disability. Material and Method: 52 people with physical disability were assessed. Demographical properties, medical and working history have been obtained. Ergonomic risk factors have been analyzed with Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and General Ergonomic Risk Analysis Checklist. Muscles strength, pinch strength, grip strength, lifting strength were measured at J-TECH computerized functional capacity assessment unit. Quality of life was assessed by SF-36 Health Survey. Results have been correlated by Spearman correlation test. Results: 12 women and 40 men included in the study whose average age is 37.15± 9.66. Most of the participants have been found to work at high risk postures and this give rise to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. High risk at work areas has been observed to be related to some parameters of quality of life. When compared with quality of life which is investigated by SF-36 Health Survey, general health status perception is found to be related by many risk factors (p&amp;lt; 0.05). In addition to, general health perception is found to be affected by social function as much as physical function. The importance of pinch strength, grip strength, lifting strength and upper extremity strength in perception of quality of life has been shown. Relationship has been occurred between fine motor function and also lifting and grip strength and general health status perception (p&amp;lt; 0.05). The work of participants including fine motor movements has been found to affect the perception of general health, physical role and energy/ vitality. Conclusion: The results show that projects for increasing productivity and satisfaction of people with physical disability at work should be done and increasing awareness of the employers about functional capacity related ergonomic risk factors is important.

Quality of life in nursing home non-demented residents in Tunisia

Admission to nursing homes is often associated with a change in the way the elderly live, possibly impacting quality of life (QOL). We aimed to assess QOL in elderly without dementia living in nursing homes, and to examine the association between QOL and sociodemographic features, comorbidities, level of dependency, and depression. We carried out a cross-sectional survey involving 42 old subjects living in Manouba nursing home. The Mini-mental state examination, the Geriatric depression scale, the Activity of daily living, the Cumulative illness rating scale-geriatric, and the 36-item Medical outcomes study short-form health survey-SF36 were used to assess cognitive functions, depression, level of dependency, comorbidities and QOL, respectively. All dimensions of the physical and mental components of QOL were altered in our population, with an overall mean score of less than 66.7 for all domains. A significant correlation was found between the two physical and mental components of QOL and the level of dependency, depression scores as well as comorbidity scores. In the final model of hierarchical regression, which included demographic (age and gender), clinical (level of dependency and comorbidities), and psychosocial (depression and social support) variables, only social support was significantly associated with both QOL dimensions. Strengthening social support in institutions is strongly recommended, especially activities that promote interaction. When family members remain involved in the lives of their older relatives after institutionalization, policies such as family visits and the involvement of family members in the care provided should be strongly encouraged.

Effect of general self-efficacy on promoting health-related quality of life during recovery from radical prostatectomy: a 1-year prospective study.

The decline of health-related quality-of-life (QOL) during the year after radical prostatectomy is severe. General self-efficacy (GSE) is an effective psychological factor for long-term regulation of patient behavior and emotions. GSE is expected to facilitate enhanced health-related quality of life. We evaluated changes in GSE and analyzed the relationship between GSE and prostate cancer-specific and general health-related QOL. We conducted a longitudinal survey with 104 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy and administered the General Self-efficacy Scale (GSES), Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC), and SF8 Health Survey (SF-8). ANCOVA was performed to compare EPIC and SF-8 between GSES high and low-medium groups. GSES scores increased significantly after 6months. Regarding EPIC urinary summary scores, high GSES group was significantly higher than low-medium group at 1month (mean score difference [MSD], 7.3; 95% CI 1.1-13.2, P = 0.016), 3months (MSD, 6.8; 95% CI 0.7-12.8, P = 0.028), and 6months (MSD, 6.3; 95% CI 0.9-11.7, P = 0.022). High GSES group had significantly higher SF-8 physical component summary score at 6months (MSD, 3.2; 95% CI 1.4-5.0, P = 0.001), and significantly higher SF-8 mental component summary score at 1month (MSD, 2.6; 95% CI 0.4-4.9, P = 0.022), 3months (MSD, 2.7; 95% CI 0.8-4.6, P = 0.007), and 6months (MSD, 2.8; 95% CI 1.0-4.6, P = 0.003). This study suggests that high GSE was associated with better prostate cancer-specific and general health-related QOL after radical prostatectomy.

Post-Heart Attack Overview of the Quality of Life in the Patients with Coronary Heart Disease

Background: Patients suffering from coronary heart disease can experience psychological changes as well as quality of life. This study aims to determine the quality of life of patients with coronary heart disease post heart attack.&#x0D; Methods: A total of 30 patients with coronary heart disease after diagnosed STEMI, NSTEMI, or unstable angina for less than one year and had never been diagnosed with a mental disorder. Quality of life was measured by the Indonesian version of the SF-36 Health Survey instrument. Unpaired t-test and Mann Whitney test was conducted to analyze the differences the quality of life based on gender.&#x0D; Results: As many as 36.7% of subjects stated that the current condition was somewhat worse than one year ago. Subjects who stated the same or better were 56.6%. Men have a higher quality of life than women, although it is not statistically significant (p&gt; 0.05). Emotional well-being is the dimension that has the highest average (75.1 ± 17.3) in both the male group (74.8 ± 17.7) and the female group (77.3 ± 16.7). Role limitations due to emotional problems have the lowest score (18.8 ± 33.5) followed by role limitations due to physical problems (20.0 ± 29.7).&#x0D; Conclusion: Patients with coronary heart disease after the attack have the perception that there are limited roles both due to emotional and physical problems. There was no significant difference between the quality of life of coronary heart disease sufferers after the attack of the male and female groups.

Farmers Market Fruit & Vegetable Rx Program Shows Clinically Significant Quality of Life Outcomes Using Standardized SF-36 Health Survey

Farmers Market Fruit & Vegetable Rx Program Shows Clinically Significant Quality of Life Outcomes Using Standardized SF-36 Health Survey

A single-center, randomized, non-inferiority study evaluating seroma formation after mastectomy combined with flap fixation with or without suction drainage: protocol for the Seroma reduction and drAin fRee mAstectomy (SARA) trial

BackgroundSeroma formation is a common complication after breast cancer surgery and can lead to delayed wound healing, infection, patient discomfort and repeated visits to the outpatient clinic. Mastectomy combined with flap fixation is becoming standard practice and is currently combined with closed-suction drainage. There is evidence showing that closed-suction drainage may be insufficient in preventing seroma formation. There is reasonable doubt whether there is still place for closed-suction drainage after mastectomy when flap fixation is performed.We hypothesize that mastectomy combined with flap fixation and closed suction drainage does not cause a significant lower incidence of seroma aspirations, when compared to mastectomy and flap fixation alone. Furthermore, we expect that patients without drainage will experience significantly less discomfort and comparable rates of surgical site infections.MethodsThis is a randomized controlled trial in female breast cancer patients undergoing mastectomy and flap fixation using sutures with or without sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). Patients will be eligible for inclusion if they are older than 18 years, have an indication for mastectomy with or without sentinel procedure. Exclusion criteria are modified radical mastectomy, direct breast reconstruction, previous history of radiation therapy of the unilateral breast, breast conserving therapy and inability to give informed consent. A total of 250 patients will be randomly allocated to one of two groups: mastectomy combined with flap fixation and closed-suction drainage or mastectomy combined with flap fixation without drainage. Follow-up will be conducted up to six months postoperatively. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients undergoing one or more seroma aspirations. Secondary outcome measures consist of the number of invasive interventions, surgical site infection, quality of life measured using the SF-12 Health Survey, cosmesis, pain and number of additional outpatient department visits.DiscussionTo our knowledge, no randomized controlled trial has been conducted comparing flap fixation with and without closed-suction drainage with seroma aspiration as the primary outcome. This study could result in finding evidence that supports performing mastectomy without closed-suction drainage.Trial registrationThis trial was approved by the medical ethical committee of Zuyderland Medical Center METC-Z on 20 March 2019 (METCZ20190023). The SARA Trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as per July 2019, Identifier: NCT04035590.

Factors Associated with Sexual Activity for Women with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction - A Cross-Sectional Study.

To examine women with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFDs) and identify factors associated with sexual activity (SA) status that impacts quality of life (QoL). We conducted a cross-sectional study that included women > 18 years old who presented with at least one PFD symptom (urinary incontinence [UI] and/or pelvic organ prolapse [POP]), in outpatient clinics specializing in urogynecology and PFD in Fortaleza, state of Ceará, Brazil, using a service evaluation form and QoL questionnaires. The analysis of 659 women with PFD included 286 SA (43.4%) women and 373 non-sexually active (NSA) (56.6%) women, with a mean age of 54.7 (±12) years old. The results revealed that age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.12) and post-menopausal status (OR = 2.28, 95% CI 1.08-4.8) were negatively associated with SA. Being married (OR = 0.43, 95% CI 0.21-0.88) was associated with SA. Pelvic organ prolapse (OR = 1.16, 95% CI 0.81-1.68) and UI (OR = 0.17, 95% CI 0.08-0.36) did not prevent SA. SF-36 Health Survey results indicated that only the domain functional capacity was significantly worse in NSA women (p = 0.012). Two King's Health Questionnaire domains in NSA women, impact of UI (p = 0.005) and personal relationships (p < 0.001), were significantly associated factors. Data from the Prolapse Quality-of-life Questionnaire indicated that NSA women exhibited compromised QoL. Postmenopausal status and age negatively affected SA. Being married facilitated SA. Presence of POP and UI did not affect SA. However, NSA women with POP exhibited compromised QoL.

Inspiratory muscle training in pulmonary hypertension: TREMMI protocol

Background: Although the progressive nature of pulmonary hypertension (PH), including the impairment of respiratory muscle function, studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of physical exercise on the functional limitations caused by the disease in this population, being an important ally to the conventional drug therapy. There is no training protocol focused exclusively on respiratory musculature that is performed without supervision, since these patients have low adherence to the rehabilitation programs performed in an outpatient setting. Respiratory muscle training (RMT) improves functional capacity and quality of life (QoL) in patients with chronic diseases such as heart failure and COPD. However, the effects of an unsupervised RMT protocol on PH are not yet known. Objective: To developed an unsupervised, home-based RMT protocol for patients with PH. Methods: A double-blind, controlled, randomized clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness of this protocol on respiratory muscle strength and endurance, functional capacity, by the six-minute walk test and QoL with the questionnaire The Medical Outcomes Study 36- item Short Form Health Survey (Sf-36) before and after an unsupervised training protocol and performed in a home environment with POWERbreathe. Two groups (IMT and SHAM) will be followed for 12 weeks with training performed 30 minutes daily. Results: We hope the intervention idealized by the protocol may will increase the respiratory muscle strength and endurance, the walk distance in six-minute walk test and QoL. Conclusions: Patients with PH who perform the intervention with inspiratory muscle training protocol may will be increase the respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity and QoL.

Effects Of Exercise Training Alone Vs A Combined Exercise/Diet Intervention On The Sf-36 Health Survey

PURPOSE: Although the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) established diet, exercise and weight loss as the ‘gold standard’ in preventive therapy for diabetes, the contribution of an exercise-only interventions on quality of life is not known. The purpose of this study, part of the Studies Targeting Risk Reduction Interventions through Defined Exercise - Prediabetes (STRRIDE PD), was to compare the effects of different exercise groups vs DPP-like intervention on change in the Physical and Mental Component scores from the SF-36 Health Survey. METHODS: Subjects were healthy 45-75 y, sedentary, overweight/obese, with impaired fasting glucose, randomized as follows: 1) Low Amount/Moderate Intensity (L/M) - equivalent to exercising at 50% of VO2 peak to expend 10 kcal per Kg of body wt per wk; 2) High Amount/Moderate Intensity (H/M) (16 kcal/kg/wk @ 50%); 3) High Amount/Vigorous Intensity (H/V) (16 kcal/kg/wk at 75% of VO2 peak) and 4) Low Amt/Mod Intensity exercise + Diet/weight loss (L/M + D). The SF-36® Health Survey was administered pre and post intervention. This survey measures 8 domains of health, 4 combine to provide a Physical Component score and the other 4 combine for a Mental Component score. RESULTS: The figures below show the effects of each group on change in the Physical and Mental Component scores. The p-values inside each bar indicate significant within group changes. The lines with p-values above and connecting two groups show a significant difference between groups. SUMMARY: All intervention groups experienced highly significant improvements in the Physical Component score. However, only the Low/Mod/Diet group had a significant improvement in the Mental Component score. While these data need to be replicated, the clinical significance of these results suggest that many amounts/intensities of aerobic exercise training can improve self-rated physical function scores, and that exercise plus a weight loss diet improves mental and physical scores.

The Effects Of Aerobic And/Or Resistance Training On The Sf-36 Health Survey From Strride-AT/RT

PURPOSE: While exercise has numerous health benefits, the optimal exercise mode is unknown. Many organizations recommend aerobic training (AT) and resistance training (RT), yet few studies have compared their effects alone or in combination. The purpose of this study, as part of the Studies Targeting Risk Reduction Interventions through Defined Exercise – AT/RT (STRRIDE AT/RT), was to compare the effects of AT, RT and the combination of the complete AT and complete RT training programs on the Physical and Mental Component scores from the SF-36 Health Survey. METHODS: Subjects were 18-70 y, sedentary, overweight/obese with moderate dyslipidemia. Of those randomized, 74% or 155 subjects completed the 8-month intervention. A subset of participants (132) had complete SF-36 data pre and post training. The randomized training groups were: 1) Resistance Training (RT) (3 d/wk, 3 sets/day, 8-12 rep/set] for 8 RT exercises = 72 sets/wk (~ 135-160 min/wk), 2) Aerobic Training (AT), [equivalent to ~12 miles/wk at 65-80% peak VO2], required an average of 133 min/wk, 3) Aerobic Training + Resistance Training (AT/RT = complete RT + complete AT). RESULTS: Figures show intervention effects on change in the Physical and Mental Component scores from the SF-36 questionnaire. The p-values inside each bar indicate significant within group changes. The bars with p-values connecting 2 groups show a significant difference between groups. SUMMARY: All exercise groups experienced significant improvements in Physical Component score. However, only the AT/RT group had a significant improvement in the Mental Component score. Further, the AT/RT group experienced significantly greater improvements in both component scores compared to the AT and RT alone groups. Finally, the AT/RT group appeared to have an additive response (i.e., AT/RT = AT + RT) for the Physical Component score; whereas, the improvement in the mental component score suggests a synergistic (greater than additive) response.

The Predictive Value Of The Sf-36 Questionnaire In Determining CPET Performance In Patients With ME/CFS

INTRODUCTION: Patients diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) tend to have difficulties with higher-intensity exercise, and usually show diminished maximal exercise capabilities when compared to their sedentary healthy counterparts (sHC). Thus, it is important to find new ways to identify patients most at risk for diminished exercise performance as soon as possible. PURPOSE: The present study seeks to determine the predictive validity of the Short Form Health Questionnaire (SF-36) and its subscales as a non-exercise component in patient evaluation. METHODS: 18 male patients diagnosed with ME/CFS (Age: 39.2 ± 12.8 years) and 18 male sedentary healthy controls (Age: 39.9 ± 13.4 years) were asked to fill out the SF-36 health survey before participating in a symptom-limited maximal exercise test (CPET). CPET was performed on a cycle ergometer, and initial resistance was set at 30 Watts with a 30 Watt increase every 2 minutes. Subjects were asked to maintain a cycling cadence of 60-70 RPM for as long as possible, or until they experienced any of the predetermined symptoms. Maximal exercise data and veniality efficiency measures were recorded and used in correlative analyses. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between ME/CFS and sHC in all relevant subscales of the SF-36 (p < 0.005 in all cases). The Physical Functioning, Vitality and Physical Health subscales were all positively correlated with maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 Max) in the ME/CFS group (r = 0.67, p <0.005; r = 0.59, p <0.05; and r = 0.65, p < 0.005 respectively), but showed poor correlations in the sHC group (r = 0.28, p = 0.24; r = 0.16, p = 0.51; r = 0.11, p = 0.65 respectively). Although there were significant differences in VE/VCO2 slopes between the groups (p < 0.05), neither group showed strong correlations between and subscales and ventilatory efficiency. CONCLUSIONS: The SF-36 and its subscales showed strong correlations with maximal exercise performance in subjects diagnosed with ME/CFS. These results were not observed in sHC, possibly due in part to the large percentage of “perfect” scores recorded in this group. While the SF-36 did not show any significant correlations with inter-test ventilatory efficiency measures, it might still hold some value in predicting outcomes of maximal CPETs in subjects with diminished exercise capacity.

Assesement Of Physical Activity Levels And Quality Of Life In Different Clinical Populations

Impaired quality of life (QoL) has been reported in different clinical populations such as patients suffering from cancer (CA), multiple sclerosis (MS) or cardiovascular diseases. A growing body of evidence indicates that physical activity (PA) affects subjective QoL while there is a dose-response relationship between the volume of exercise and its health benefits. PURPOSE: The present study assessed and compared PA levels and QoL of different clinical populations and age-matched healthy adults. METHODS: One hundred and thirteen volunteers, i.e., 29 with CA under chemotherapy (age: 56.0 ± 10.4 yrs, BMI: 27.2 ± 5.4 kg/m2), 20 with MS (age: 53.3 ± 14.4 yrs, BMI: 25.9 ± 3.5 kg/m2), 14 with hypertension (HYP) (age: 55.0 ± 11.0 yrs, BMI: 31.0 ± 6.0 kg/m2) and 50 healthy controls (CON) (age: 51.3 ± 6.5 yrs, BMI: 25.3 ± 3.1 kg/m2), participated in the study. Levels of PA and QoL were self-estimated with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the SF-36 Health Survey questionnaire or the EORTC-QLQ30, respectively. RESULTS: The weekly energy expenditure was higher (p<0.01) in the CON group (2658.4 ± 2763.6 METs) compared with all clinical populations examined (CA: 2176.5 ± 2033.6 METs; HYP: 1560.9 ± 760.2 METs; MS: 64.2 ± 67.6 METs). Moreover, the metabolic cost of vigorous intensity PA was low in CA (30.6 ± 114.9 METs), HYP (36.9 ± 92.1 METs) and MS (0 METs), in contrast with the controls (1020.0 ± 1472.5 METs) (p<0.001). Differences were also revealed in walking energy expenditure between CON and MS group (1653.4 ± 1726.4 vs 114.0 ± 163.1 METs; p<0.05). Physical functioning (PF) score was higher in CON (85.5 ± 15.1) compared with MS (31.3 ± 31.2; p<0.001) and CA (69.4 ± 22.0; p<0.05). Furthermore, QoL was assessed as poor in MS (29.5 ± 20.4) and moderate to high in CA, (59.8 ± 17.5) CON (71.10 ± 18.7), HYP (71.4 ± 14.3) (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings revealed that clinical populations included in this study had a lower total weekly energy expenditure compared to healthy individuals, without engaging in high-intensity PA. In particular, MS patients exhibited the lowest rates of PA, PF and QoL, while CA and HYP group showed higher scores in of PA, PF and QoL, implying a potential relationship between PA and QoL. The specific nature of each disease may explain the differences observed among the clinical populations examined.

Mobility in association with anxiety and quality of life in middle-aged and older female fallers and non-fallers

Objective ― The goal of our study was to compare mobility vs. cognitive function and quality of life in middle-aged and older women, both fallers and non-fallers. Material and Methods ― A total of 246 healthy community-dwelling women 55-74 YO participated in this study. They were distributed among two subgroups: (1) fallers (n=95) and (2) non-fallers (n=151). Fallers had falls in the past 12 months, while non-fallers did not. Walking tests were performed using Balance Master® posturography system. Trait anxiety and state anxiety were assessed by Spielberger-Hanin test; health state and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated from SF-36 health survey questionnaire; subjectively experienced age (SEA) and the rate of aging were also estimated. Results ― In Walk Across test, the average speed was lower in fallers (p=0.020), as compared with non-fallers. In Tandem Walking test, step width (p=0.016) and endpoint sway velocity (p=0.029) were higher, while speed (p=0.030) was lower in fallers vs. non-fallers. Step-Quick-Turn test time (p=0.016) was longer and sway (p=0.011) was higher in fallers in the course of turning both to the left and to the right. SEA in female non-fallers was less (p=0.033) than in female fallers of the same age. Trait anxiety was higher in female fallers (p=0.012) with a lower QoL level (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion ― Our results validated the need for early assessment of the postural control dynamic components in order to prevent the development of falls as a geriatric syndrome.

A short-term yoga-based intervention improves balance control, body composition, and some aspects of mental health in the elderly men

Background: Body balance control represents a key function for the physical activities of elderly people aged sixty-five and over. Due to the biological and psychosocial changes in this age group, yoga-based intervention appears to be beneficial to maintaining their ability to balance along with related mental aspects of health. Objective: The aim of the presented study was to examine the effects of the 4-week yoga-based intervention on balance, body composition and the mental health aspects of elderly men. Methods: 67-80-year-old elderly men (N = 234, mean age 72.5 ± 7.7 years) were assessed with The Tinetti Balance Assessment Tool, bioimpedance body composition analyser InBody 230 and the Health Survey SF-36, applied for the pre- and post-testing. The experimental group (n = 122) underwent the 4-week intervention based on yoga exercises, while the control group (n = 112) had a usual daily program at their senior homes or centers. Results: The yoga intervention led to significant improvement of both the static balance and gait scores compared to the control group, with medium effect size, ηp2 = .070 and .080. The intervention also had an effect on the decrease of body fat percentage (by 1.7%) and an increase in muscle mass (by 1.3 kg), with a large effect size, ηp2 = .214 and .301. Results of the Health Survey showed that overall mental health did not change significantly although positive improvement in two items connected with emotional problems. Conclusions: A short-term yoga-based intervention may have a significant positive influence on physical abilities such as balance control and body composition rather than on mental health aspects in elderly men aged sixty-five and over.

Abstract B037: The role of HIV status in health-related quality of life in gay and bisexual prostate cancer survivors: Findings from the Restore study

Abstract Objective: Prostate cancer is the most common invasive cancer in gay and bisexual men. Despite the unique sexual and urinary concerns of this group, nearly all studies of prostate cancer rehabilitation post-treatment have focused on heterosexual men. Older gay and bisexual men, the generation most likely to experience prostate cancer, also have high prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which is associated with lower quality of life. Research has indicated that people with HIV may experience health disparities in cancer treatment, but to our knowledge, this is the first quantitative study of the association between HIV status and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in gay and bisexual men with prostate cancer. Methods: Data from the Restore study, a cross-sectional online survey of gay and bisexual men treated for prostate cancer and residing in the United States or Canada, were used to examine this association. The Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) was used to assess function and bother in four domains: urinary, sexual, bowel, and hormone. Overall physical and mental HRQOL was assessed utilizing the SF-12 Health Survey. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to evaluate the association between HIV status and HRQOL scores. Models were adjusted for age, race, treatment (prostatectomy, radiation, or advanced treatment), relationship status (partnered/married versus single/dating/widowed/divorced), preferred role in sex, and number of comorbidities. Results: Of 193 participants, 24 (12.4%) reported an HIV diagnosis, including 3 diagnosed after their prostate cancer treatment. The cohort was 89 percent white, with mean age 63.4 years. After adjustment for demographic and treatment characteristics, HIV-positive status was associated with lower scores on the EPIC urinary (RD: -10.8, 95% CI: -19.5 to -2.2) and sexual (RD: -10.3, 95% CI: -20.2 to -0.4) domains. Although there were no statistically significant associations found in the other domains, HIV-positive participants reported lower outcomes in all domains except the SF-12 mental domain (RD: 0.3, 95% CI: -5.0 to 5.6). Conclusion: Our findings, though imprecise, provide evidence that HIV status may be associated with poorer HRQOL in gay and bisexual prostate cancer survivors. Citation Format: Elizabeth J. Polter, Christopher W. Wheldon, Nidhi Kohli, B. R. S. Rosser. The role of HIV status in health-related quality of life in gay and bisexual prostate cancer survivors: Findings from the Restore study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eleventh AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2018 Nov 2-5; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl):Abstract nr B037.