Factors affecting quality of life in patients with coronary heart disease

Authors: TAHİR DURMAZ, ÖZCAN ÖZDEMİR, BURCU AKYUNAK ÖZDEMİR, TELAT KELEŞ, NİHAL AKAR BAYRAM, ENGİN BOZKURT

Abstract: Background: Cardiovascular diseases are currently the most common cause of death worldwide and associated with significant impairment of quality of life (QOL). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the QOL patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) in our country and the factors associated with QOL in these patients. Materials and Methods: The study population was composed of 85 patients diagnosed with stable CHD. The data were collected using Ferrans and Powers' Quality of Life Index Cardiac Version- IV and the query designed by the investigators. Results: Eighty-five patients (29 female, 56 male; ages between 38 and 72 years) were enrolled in this study. Married patients and those with greater incomes had greater QOL scores. Patients who had difficulties in daily works due to cardiac problems had lower QOL. Interestingly, patients with previous coronary intervention or surgey had similar QOL scores compared to those without. Patients who got emotional and social support had a greater social/economic score and who were able to get tangible social support had a higher global QOL score. Independent variables affecting the global QOL were marital and financial status, prior myocardial infarction (MI), and having difficulty in daily works. Conclusion: Marital and financial status, prior MI, and having difficulty in daily works are the main determinants for the QOL in patients with CHD. Social support may increase the effectiveness of their rehabilitation and psychosocial activity, thereby QOL. Effective public health interventions should be aimed at improving QOL, especially in the most vulnerable groups.

Keywords: Coronary heart disease, quality of life, social support

Full Text: PDF