World Health Organization Quality Of Life Research Articles

Effectiveness of Compassion-Focused Therapy Training on Reducing Depression and Anxiety and Increasing Quality of Life in Women with Breast Cancer in Tehran

Objective: The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of compassion-focused therapy (CFT) training on reducing depression and anxiety and increasing the quality of life in women with breast cancer in Tehran. Materials and Methods: This research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test, post-test, control group, and follow-up. The statistical population included all women with breast cancer undergoing treatment in Tehran hospitals in 2022. A total of 30 volunteers were selected through purposive sampling and assigned to experimental and control groups. Beck's Depression and Anxiety Inventory and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) questionnaire were used for assessment. Pre-tests for depression, anxiety, and quality of life were administered to both groups before the intervention. The experimental group received CFT training according to an educational protocol over eight sessions, while the control group received no intervention. Post-tests were conducted for both groups after the intervention and again 45 days later. Findings: Data were analyzed using a mixed-design analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results indicated that CFT training was effective in reducing depression and anxiety and increasing the quality of life in women, with these effects remaining stable after 45 days (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Given the effectiveness and stability of CFT training, it is recommended that health and medical centers utilize such therapeutic methods to improve the mental health of cancer patients.

Chronic pain among older adults and its impact on satisfaction with social participation: development and validation of the "Instrument to Assess Older Adults' Social Participation". A descriptive quantitative study.

We aimed to develop and validate a practical instrument to assess older adults' satisfaction with their social participation (SP). This methodological validation study was conducted at a public higher education institution. A two-phase study was designed, developed, and validated to assess older adults' satisfaction with their SP. In the first phase, we conceptualized SP and developed an "instrument to assess older adults' satisfaction with their SP (IAPSI)," as approved by a committee of specialists, pre-tested, and partially validated. Second, we determined the IAPSI's reproducibility using Cronbach's alpha to measure internal consistency, Pearson's and Spearman's coefficients to measure correlations, the Bland-Altman plot and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) to measure reproducibility. We also generated a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. 102 older adults (mean age, 87.29) participated in the first phase. Moderate internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.7) and significant moderate correlations with quality of life by World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-bref and by WHOQOL-old social domains (Pearson's coefficients 0.54 and 0.64, respectively; P < 0.001) were found. The ROC curve indicated an IAPSI score of 17 as the threshold for the impact of pain on satisfaction with SP (83.3% sensitivity and 88.9% specificity, P < 0.001). In the second phase, 56 older adults (between 81 and 90 years old) participated. We found adequate intra- and inter-observer reproducibility for the IAPSI (ICC 0.96 and 0.78, respectively). We have developed a practical instrument with appropriate psychometric properties to assess older adults' satisfaction with their SP.

Perceived Work Stress and Quality of Life Among Bankers in Southwest Nigeria.

Work-related stress is the response people may have when presented with work demands and pressures that are not matched to their knowledge and abilities and challenge their ability to cope. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines quality of life (QOL) as individuals' perception of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards, and concerns. This study aimed to determine the pattern of perceived work stress and its impact on the QOL of bankers in Ado-Ekiti, Southwest Nigeria. This was a cross-sectional study conducted among three hundred and two bankers in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. The single-stage study obtained data on the socio-demographics, work history, and medical history of respondents with the socio-demographic questionnaire. The perception of work stress by the respondents was assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and the QOL was assessed with the WHO QOL Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF). Fifty-seven (18.9%) had a low perception of stress, 233 (77.1%) had a moderate perception of stress, and 12 (4.0%) had a high perception of stress. In this study, an association was found between perceived work stress and social relationship domain of QOL. This study showed that there is a high prevalence of moderately perceived work stress among bankers. It also showed a significant association between perceived work stress and QOL.

A randomized comparative clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of Chatushashti Prahari Pippali along with Rehabilitation self-management after COVID-19 related illness in the management of post COVID syndrome

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 pandemic along with post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) has raised many questions to the medical fraternity for which Ayurveda can be the solution for abatement of the disease along with its prevention and treatment. Aim: The present prospective double-arm randomized controlled clinical study was undertaken with the aim to evaluate the role of Chatushashti Prahari Pippali (CPP) as addon to rehabilitation guidelines in PCS, in comparison with rehabilitation guidelines on the relief in the symptoms as the primary outcome and upgradation of quality of life (QoL) as the secondary outcome. Materials and methods: A total of 112 patients of PCS were selected and randomized into two groups, namely group A and group B, in which intervention was encapsulated CPP and placebo, respectively. The posology of oral intervention in both groups was 500 mg capsulated powder twice a day after food with lukewarm water for 8 weeks, along with rehabilitation guidelines. Both the groups were assessed based on subjective and objective parameters such as symptomatic gradation, 6 min walk test (6MWT), and Quality of life. Results: Results were obtained by descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including ANOVA, ANCOVA, and paired t-tests. Statistically significant difference was reported between the groups in all assessment parameters, including symptomatic improvement, upgrading in 6MWT with the enhancement of QoL assessed by the WHO QoL and Post-COVID-19 Functional Scale, which validates the superiority of combined therapy (CPP and rehabilitation) over only rehabilitation in the management of PCS. Conclusion: The present study provides credible evidence that the Ayurveda intervention CPP along with rehabilitation is effective in the management of PCS in enhancing the QoL of COVID-19 long-haulers, justifying the need for medicinal intervention along with rehabilitation.

Assessing the Role of Physical Performance and Executive Functioning in Predicting the Quality of Life of Adults With Intellectual Disability in Northwest Iran

Background and Aims People with intellectual disabilities (ID) are a vulnerable social group whose physical performance, quality of life (QOL), and ability to live independently are affected. This study aims to investigate the relationship between QOL, executive functioning, and physical performance of adults with ID in northwest Iran. Methods This is a descriptive-correlational study. Participants were 61 adults (Mean age=34.31±8.895 years) with ID in Ardabil, Tabriz, and Urmia cities who were selected by a convenience sampling method.. The 26-item WHO QOL Questionnaire, the Barclay deficits in executive functioning scale - short form, and the short physical performance short battery were used to measure QOL, executive functioning, and physical performance. Pearson correlation test to investigate the relationship between these three variables. Regression analysis was used to assess the role of executive functioning and physical performance in predicting QOL. Results The results showed a significant relationship between QOL and physical performance (r=0.31, P=0.015), between QOL and deficits in executive functioning (r=-0.37, P=0.004), and between physical performance and deficits in executive functioning (r=-0.42, P=0.001). Executive functioning and physical performance together predicted 16% of changes in the QOL of patients. Conclusion Executive functioning and physical performance have a relationship with the QOL in adults with ID in northwest Iran. There is a positive relationship between QOL and physical performance, and a negative relationship between QOL and deficits in executive functioning and between physical performance and deficits in executive functioning. The QOL of patients can be predicted based on their executive functioning. Keywords

Correlation between Pain, Disability, and Quality of Life in Young Adults with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain (CNLBP) is characterized by persistent pain lasting more than 12 weeks. Common contributing factors include sedentary jobs, prolonged periods of inactivity or sitting, and a lack of physical activity. CNLBP can restrict everyday activities such as dressing and bathing, potentially leading to disability and a reduction in the Quality of Life (QOL). Aim: To determine the correlation between pain, disability, and QOL in young adults with CNLBP. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to June 2024 at the outpatient department of KJ Somaiya College of Physiotherapy. After obtaining approval from the institutional ethical committee and based on the selection criteria, a total of 98 participants were included. The outcome measures utilised in the study included the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire-24 (RMDQ-24), the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHO QOL BREF), and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) to assess disability, QOL, and pain, respectively. Pearson’s correlation test was employed to determine the correlation between these parameters. Results: The findings of the study indicated non-significant correlation between pain and disability (r=0.0021, p=0.4918), between pain and QOL (r=-0.0016, p=0.9872), and a negative, non-significant correlation between disability and QOL (r=- 0.1015, p=0.3196). Conclusion: The study concluded that there was no correlation between pain and disability, QOL and disability. Similarly, a negative non significant correlation was obtained between disability and QOL in young adults with CNLBP.

Quality of life among Saudi Arabian Patients Receiving Private Healthcare: Household-Based Survey

Background: As an alternative to hospitalization, home healthcare programs are assuming greater significance on a global scale due to the expanding geriatric population and the prevalence of chronic and acute diseases that require ongoing monitoring and care. In describing and evaluating the quality of life (QOL) and associated determinants of patients enrolled in the Home Health Care (HHC) program affiliated with the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was the overarching purpose of this study. Methods: Participants in this cross-sectional study were HHC program enrolled patients. Utilizing the World Health Organization QOL questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF), information regarding the various domains of patients' QOL was gathered. By fitting logistic regression models, factors associated with a low QOL score were identified. Results: In the research, 253 patients participated. Age distribution: 67.05 (± 20.0). Morbid and sociodemographic characteristics had a substantial impact on the overall quality of life of HHC patients. The final multivariate logistic regression models identified independent associations between marital status, psychological disorders, stroke, and number of illnesses and the overall quality of life (QOL) of HHC patients (p =.022, p =.002, p =.031, and.057, respectively). In a retrospective analysis, the physical health domain score exhibited significant associations with educational attainment, psychological issues, and stroke (p =.028, p =.002, p =.007). Conversely, the psychological domain score demonstrated a significant association with age (p &lt; 0.001) and three distinct forms of chronic ailments—pulmonary (p =.002), psychological problems (p = 0.001), and p =.002. Only the marital status exhibited a significant association with the social domain score (p =.026). There was a significant association between the environmental domain and both education level and stroke incidence (p =.017 vs..027). Conclusions: Multiple factors are substantially correlated with the overall QOL and its domains. A significant number of these factors can be monitored and improved by enhancing the efficacy of HHC services; consequently, this will enhance patients' QOL.

Subjective Quality of Life of Visually Impaired Patients in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria

Aim: To determine the subjective quality of life and associated factors among visually impaired patients in Ogbomoso. Objectives: A: To determine the subjective quality of life among visually impaired patients in Ogbomoso (considering sustainable development goal 3-health and well-being). B: To determine the factors associated with the quality of life of visually impaired patients in Ogbomoso (considering sustainable development goals 1,4 and 17). Methods: It was a descriptive, cross-sectional study among institutionalized and community-living patients with loss of vision in a training centre for the blind in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria. Interviewer-administered questionnaires (for socio-demographics and WHO QOL BREF -World Health Organization Quality of Life Bref -) were applied to study subjects. Individual score per domain were summed up and the mean for all subjects per domain calculated. Individual score less than the mean was classified as poor quality of life, score greater than or equal to the mean was classified as good quality of life. Results: Out of the 143 study participants, of whom 41.6% had poor quality of life. Quality of life was found to be associated with increasing age (p = 0.000), unemployment (p = 0.000) and place of residence (p = 0.000). Conclusion: There is a relatively high poor quality of life among patients with visual impairment in Ogbomoso. Factors affecting their quality of life included increasing age, unemployment and place of residence.

Stress during the covid-19 pandemic: unusual challenges for university professors

Objective: Investigate the factors related to the stress levels triggered during the COVID-19 pandemic and the quality of life (QOL) of university professors. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 318 professors from private and public higher education institutions in Maranhão, Brazil. Data collection included a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Brazilian versions of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Abbreviated World Health OrganizationQOL Assessment Instrument (WHOQOL-bref). Statistical analyses were performed with Student’s T-test and Analysis of Variance with Duncan’s post-hoc. Results: according to the results of the professor score assessment, perceived stress levels were classified as normal (n = 166, 52.2%), moderate (n = 126, 39.6%), and high (n = 26, 8, 2%), with an average of 26.6 (± 10.5). QOL had an overall average of 56.4 (± 13.0). Among the QOL domains, the physical had the highest mean with 66.1 (± 17.7), while the lowest mean was in the social domain with 55.8 (± 14.8). Conclusion: The factors that influenced the stress levels were being female with age between 31 and 40years old, those who had a child, and those who did not perform a frequent religious practice.

Evaluation of comparative efficacy of Celastrus paniculatus (Jyotishmati) capsule versus sertraline capsule in the management of Chittodvega (generalized anxiety disorder): protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (Chittodvega) is one among many types of mental disorders explained in Ayurveda. It can be defined as a Chitta (mind) + Udvega (anxiety)= Chittodvega- Anxious status of a mind. Celastrus paniculatus is one of the most important medicinal plants of the Celatraceae family commonly known as Jyotishmati. It stimulates and improves the digestive fire and metabolism at a cellular level (Jatharagni and Majja dhatwagni). It can be correlated to GAD. GAD is characterized by feelings of threat, restlessness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and tension, and symptoms such as palpitations, dry mouth, and sweating. It affects women more frequently than men and prevalence rates are high in midlife (prevalence in females over age 35: 10%) and older subjects. In modern medicine the first-line psychological and pharmaceutical treatments are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (SNRIs). Aim and objectives To evaluate the comparative efficacy of Jyotishmati versus sertraline in the management of Chittodvega. Methods In this randomized clinical equivalence trial a total of 70 patients will be enrolled and divided into two equal groups. Patients between 20–50 years age of either gender having symptoms of Chittodvega and a Hamilton anxiety rating (HAM-A) scale score less than 24 (i.e., mild to moderate) will be selected for the study. In Group A, sertraline capsules 25 mg for first 7 days and then dose increased to 50 mg at bedtime for next 53 days and in Group B Jyotishmati Capsules 500 mg will be given twice a day after food with water for 60 days. Result and observation The patients will be assessed on the HAM-A scale, serum cortisol and WHO Quality of Life on day 0, 30, 60 and 90 and data collected will be analysed by using statistical tests. Trial registration CTRI No. REF/2023/07/069880 Date – 15/09/2023

Kualitas Hidup Pasien dengan Diabetes Melitus Tipe 2

This study aims to determine the quality of life of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in the outpatient department of the General Hospital in Aceh Province. The research method used a cross sectional study approach with data collection using questionnaires, namely sociodemographic questionnaires and World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-BREF questionnaires. The results showed that the quality of life of outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the physical health domain was in the less category (54.2%) and was in the good category for three other domains, namely the psychological domain (63.3%), the social relationship domain (52.8%) and the environmental domain (33.6%). Type 2 diabetes mellitus affects the quality of life of the sufferer. Measuring the quality of life of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients is important because it can identify individuals with poor quality of life and various predictors of quality of life.&#x0D; &#x0D; Keywords: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Quality of Life, WHOQOL-BREF

Physical training and activity in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A case report

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting more than 100 million people worldwide, around 6% of the population. This matter characterized by hyperglycemia (high glucose levels in blood) caused by a lack or ineffective production of insulin by the pancreas which results in an increase or decrease in the concentration of glucose in the blood. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) or what is called diabetic peripheral neuropathy is the most common complication in cases of diabetes mellitus. DPN is a disease of loss of motor, sensory and autonomic nerve function, which can affect the peripheral nervous system. Sensorimotor training is considered a technique that can improve balance. This emphasizes the function of the sensorimotor system as a unit that works to increase sensory input and motor recruitment patterns in maintaining joint stability and regulating movement through the central nervous system (CNS). Aerobic exercise is a type of physical activity that can prevent and reduce DPN. Aerobic exercise such as treadmill can train balance. Balance training shows a high positive effect on improving motor and sensory symptoms in peripheral neuropathyPurpose: To examine the effects of sensorimotor training and lower limb muscle activity in DPN patients using treadmill.Method: The research uses a case study design, namely a research method that uses various data sources that can be used as research material, describing and explaining comprehensively various aspects of an individual, group, program, organization or event systematically. Participants in this study were patients aged 64 years, female, diagnosed diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) for 10 years by a doctor. This research uses an aspect identification questionnaire instrument. DPN is screened using Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI). Static balance is determined by romberg test and for dynamic balance it is measured by timed up and go test. Functional lower limb muscle strength is checked using tests Five Time Sit to Stand (5xSST).Results: The data for the respondent is a housewife aged 64 years, last education is junior high school with status as a housewife. The patient suffered from T2DM for 10 years with a hemoglobin 1AC level of 6.8 mg/dl, was overweight as indicated by the patient's BMI of 26 kg/m2. Often feels pain in both legs, when the patient walks and does strenuous activities with a score of 9, and the pain decreases when resting with a score of 3. Apart from that, the patient also has vision problems with a score of 20/40, meaning the patient can only see letters. at a distance of 20 feet. Even though normally letters can be seen clearly, namely 40 feet, this visual disturbance can cause the patient's balance to be disturbed. Providing treatment for 6 weeks can significantly improve the patient's quality of life as seen from the initial WHO QoL score of 58 to 86.Conclusion: Providing treadmill training for 6 weeks carried out 3 times a week showed significant results in reducing hemoglobin levels and DPN scores in T2DM patients.

Effect of Pratimarsha Nasya (Nasal Instillation of oil) and Yoga based Protocol (Omkar chanting, Bhramari Pranayam, and Relaxation Technique) in reducing Geriatric stress with reference to Manas Swasthya (Mental Welbeing): A Randomized Control Trial – A study Protocol

Today age-related cognitive decline stands as a major public health issue, with high societal costs and few preventative options. Geriatric age group is very prone to the age related psychological disturbances. This study will provide cost effective and easily acceptable solution for geriatric stress if proved positive. Aim: To Study effect of Pratimarsh nasya and yoga based protocol - (Omkar chanting, Bhramari Pranayam, and relaxation technique) to relive stress in geriatric Patients w.r.t manas swasthya Primary Objective:1) To study the effect of Pratimarsha Nasya and yoga based protocol in mental stress of geriatric patients. 2) To assess the effect by assessment criteria (WHO QOL and PSS Scale) Secondary Objective: 1) To study and develop a Yoga based protocol 2) To study the geriatric problems related manas swasthya 3) Standardization of Nasya drug (Bramhi Siddha Tail) 4) To prepare an audio for Relaxation technique 5) To study the WHO QOL and PSS Scale as an assessment criteria for relieving geriatric stress. Methodology: This study will be carried out on 132 subjects of geriatric stress, One group will undergo Bramhi tail nasya and other will undergo Nasya and the yoga based protocol for 3 months. Assessment: Assessment will be done based upon PSS Score and WHO –QOL Score with appropriate statistical tests. Conclusion: Conclusion will be drawn on the basis of Observations, Data analysis, test for significance. Keywords: Pratimarsha Nasya, Yoga based Protocol, Geriatric stress, Manas Swasthya.

Evaluating the Aspects of Quality of Life in Individuals with Substance Use Disorder: A Systematic Review Based on the WHOQOL Questionnaire.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) has become a significant public health concern and it profoundly impacts an individual's quality of life (QOL). This systematic review aimed to assess the QOL among patients with SUD, and to understand the differential impact of SUD on physical, mental, social, and environmental QOL domains, considering a variety of substances and identifying key factors that influence these outcomes. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus in January 2023, covering literature published until December 2022. The QOL was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) instrument and the brief version of the WHOQOL, identifying the same four domains of QOL (physical, mental, social, and environmental). A total of 19 studies were selected for inclusion in the systematic review, based on individuals' polysubstance use, and excluding those using only nicotine or alcohol. The analysis included 6079 patients, with only 40.3% women, and a mean age of 36.6 years. The substances most commonly involved in SUD were cocaine (47.1%), alcohol (46.3%), and amphetamine (43.6%), considering most individuals being polysubstance users. The highest variability in QOL scores was observed in the physical domain. Mental disorders were reported in 68.3% of the patients, while long-term use of drugs, criminal history, unemployment, and low levels of education were identified as significant predictors for lower QOL by some of the studies. Similarly, sleep problems and teeth decay were also identified as significant worsening factors for QOL. This systematic review highlights that the WHOQOL survey is widely accepted and applicable for individuals with SUD worldwide. The results suggest a substantial negative impact of SUD on the QOL of affected individuals. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive interventions to address the physical, psychological, social, and environmental dimensions of QOL among individuals with SUD.

Social Participation of Older Adults in Rural and Urban Areas: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Turkey

ABSTRACT Social participation is important in terms of active aging and quality of life during old age. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the social participation of older adults in rural and urban areas in Turkey. Related factors were similarly identified. The sample comprised 1,224 people over the age of 60, with a mean of 69.78 ± 7.48 years. Among the participants, 61.4% live in urban areas. The data were collected in family health centers through face-to-face interview and the Interview Form, Social Participation Assessment Form, and Social Participation Dimension of the Turkish Version of the Aging Module of the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) Scale. The scores obtained from the social participation dimension of the scale among the elderly in urban areas were higher than those obtained among the elderly in rural areas (p = .002). In addition, older adults in the urban areas who talked on the phone several times a month (p = .025), went to concerts, theater/cinema, museum/exhibition, various visual/musical shows (p = .046), and engaged in gardening (p = .032) obtained higher scores in the social participation dimension than the other participants. Health care professionals should take an advocacy role in building relationships with policy makers and create suitable socialization opportunities for older adults in urban and rural areas.

Quality of life, depression, anxiety, stress symptoms, and its association with vitiligo extent and distribution: A cross-sectional study

Objectives: Vitiligo, a globally prevalent psychocutaneous disorder (incidence: 0.1–2%), profoundly affects mental health. It often leads to depression and anxiety, particularly when more body surface area (BSA) is involved. Lesions appear on both exposed and unexposed skin, significantly impairing patients’ quality of life (QOL). The objectives of the study are to assess depression, anxiety, stress, QOL, and their relationship with BSA in vitiligo patients. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 50 vitiligo patients, gathering sociodemographic data using a self-designed form. BSA affected was calculated using the “rule of nines.” Depression, anxiety, and stress were measured using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 42. QOL was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index and the World Health Organization QOL questionnaire BREF. Data analysis utilized SPSS version 20.0, adhering to ethical guidelines. Results: Depression, anxiety, and stress rates were 36%, 38%, and 32%, respectively. Depression prevalence was 21.7% in patients with &lt;10% BSA affected and 100% in those with &gt;80% involvement. Conclusion: Vitiligo significantly impacts mental health, particularly with greater BSA involvement, leading to heightened depression rates. It is a psychodermatological condition, adversely affecting QOL, highlighting the importance of holistic care in collaboration with mental health professionals.

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and quality of life assessment among garment workers in Tiruppur district, Tamil Nadu

Objectives. The garment industry is a labour-intensive industry, with workers susceptible to musculoskeletal problems, especially those employed in smaller units that lack adequate occupational health provisions. This study aims to determine the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among workers in both large and small garment units and assess their quality of life (QoL). Methods. The study surveyed 746 garment workers, comprising 372 from large units and 374 from small units. Data were collected through the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-BREF questionnaire, with posture analysis conducted using the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) and rapid entire body assessment (REBA) scales. Results. The results showed that 32% of workers in large-scale garment units and 43.9% in small-scale garment units reported musculoskeletal symptoms. The occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) was significantly associated with increasing age, smoking, alcohol consumption, job duration, working in shifts and moonlighting. Conclusion. The workers in the garment industry, particularly of small units, are highly susceptible to WMSDs.

Guided imagery for anxiety disorder: Therapeutic efficacy and changes in quality of life

Background: Patients with anxiety disorder were showing severity of anxiety symptoms as well as poor quality of life. Guided imagery (GI) provides immediate relaxation, and improves the severity of anxiety symptoms and the quality of life of patients with anxiety disorder. Anxiety is a basic emotion that is required as a motivation for everyday work of life. Anxiety presents a complex cognitive, affective, physiological, and behavioral response that is related to future harm (real or perceived). Aim: To study the efficacy of GI intervention on patients with anxiety disorder and their quality of life. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal, interventional study was done in a state institute of mental health, psychiatric unit on 20 patients (outpatients) with anxiety disorder, diagnosed according to diagnostic criteria of research ICD-10 DCR. Patients were assessed using a sociodemographic and clinical data sheet, Hamilton anxiety scale, and World Health Organization QOL instrument, short-form (WHOQOL-BREF), Hindi version. Results: Patients with anxiety disorder in the experimental group improved as compared with the control group significantly. The mean QOL-BREF score was also improved after intervention in the intervention group. Conclusion: GI intervention helps reduce the severity of anxiety symptoms and improve the quality of life in patients with anxiety disorder.

Biopsychosocial Determinants of Quality of Life in Patients with Hepatitis B and C

Hepatitis B and C are highly contagious viral diseases that impact the liver. Past research findings have identified that in addition to the physical burden of disease, there are numerous psychopathological consequences of these diseases including depression, anxiety, stress and other psychiatric comorbidities. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities in patients, perceived immune status, social support, resilience, health and physical lifestyle and the predictive role of these factors in impacting quality of life in patients with Hepatitis B and C. Methods: a correlational research design was used with an independently drawn sample of 400 participants (196 with chronic HBV and 204 with chronic HCV) with the mean age of 40.8 years and a balanced gender distribution. The sample size was finalized using G power analysis with 95 % confidence intervals. Normality checks were also performed on the data through assessing skewness, kurtosis and shape of the distribution. Cross Cutting Symptoms Measure, Essential Resilience Scale, Immune Status Questionnaire, Health and Life Style Scale and WHO Qol BREF scale were used. Results: The findings showed that cross cutting symptoms (depression, anger, anxiety, somatic symptoms, suicidal ideation, psychosis, sleep problems, memory, repetitive thoughts and behaviors, dissociation, personality functioning, substance abuse) had a significant negative predictive association with health and lifestyle, perceived immune status, resilience. Conclusions: It has been assessed that cross cutting symptoms, perceived immune status, health and lifestyle factors, social support and resilience significantly impact quality of life.

Factor analysis of quality of life among menopausal women attending primary health centers of Jazan city, KSA.

Although it looks reasonable to say menopausal women experience significant changes in quality of life, however the period is filled with anxiety and distress. Women can experience an array of symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats, sleep and mood disorders, impaired memory, lack of concentration, nervousness, depression, insomnia, bone and joint complaints Objectives:1. To assess Quality of life in menopausal women attending primary health care centers of Jazan, KSA 2. To conduct factor analysis for the variables affecting quality of life of menopausal women Methodology: A cross-sectional study conducted in primary health centers located in Jazan city. All menopausal women between age of 40-79 years were considered. A predesigned questionnaire drawn from World Health Organization Quality Of Life BREF (WHO QOL BREF) utilized Results: Mean age was 50.02+4.5 (Age + SD) Physical changes domain mean was 1.42+1.46 (mean + SD), greater than other domains and the participants were experiencing physical changes affecting quality of life more than any domain Sexual changes domain mean + SD was 1.21+1.99 and the participants were extremely bothered with symptoms of this domain. Conclusions: Significant shift in health care services is required for improving QOL of menopausal women which continue to be overlooked.