Search

Background: Experiencing a loved one's stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) can profoundly affect families, often leading to post-intensive care syndrome-family (PICS-F), a condition particularly exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. While PICS-F significantly impacts the mental health of families of ICU patients, especially in the context of COVID-19, the long-term effects beyond 12 months remain understudied. This study aims to explore the prevalence of PTSD-related symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in family members up to 18 months after ICU discharge. Methods: This prospective study, conducted in a tertiary university hospital in Tokyo, enrolled family members of severe COVID-19 ICU patients (July 2020 to June 2022 with final follow-up ending in December 2023). The primary outcome was family member symptoms of PTSD at 6, 12 and 18 months after ICU discharge, measured by the Impact of Events Scale-Revised (presence of PTSD symptoms defined by score > 24). Secondary outcomes were family member symptoms of anxiety and depression, sleep disorders, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) at the same timepoint. Results: Among 97 enrolled family members, 68 participated. At least one PTSD-related symptom was reported by 26% of family members, persisting over 18 months post-discharge (16% at 6 months, 23% at 12 months, and 25% at 18 months). A subgroup (15%) exhibited delayed-onset PTSD symptoms. Family members with PTSD-related symptoms reported lower HRQOL, especially in mental and social components. Conclusions: The study underscores the importance of long-term support for family members post-ICU discharge, given the sustained prevalence of PTSD-related symptoms among family members of severe COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a chronic disease caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), characterized by recurrent papillomas in the respiratory tract. Presenting as either juvenile-onset RRP (JoRRP) or adult-onset RRP (AoRRP), the severity of the disease is subjective and unpredictable. Lack of curative therapies necessitates disease management involving repeated surgical removal of lesions. The review aimed to assess the clinical, humanistic and economic burden associated with RRP. Methods: Systematic literature reviews of Embase®, MEDLINE® and Cochrane databases were conducted for epidemiology, clinical, humanistic, and economic burden, from database inception to November 30, 2022. Conference abstracts were also searched (2019–2022). Key inclusion criteria consisted of juveniles or adults with RRP/laryngeal papillomatosis, with no restriction on study country, interventions, or comparators. Outcomes of interest included incidence, prevalence, risk factors, symptomatic presentation, HPV genotype, cost burden, resource use and health related quality of life (HRQoL). Results: In JoRRP, the incidence rate ranged from 0.2–2.1 per 100,000 and the prevalence rate ranged from 0.8–4.3 per 100,000. Incidence and prevalence of AoRRP were 0.2–3.9 and 0.4–8.4 per 100,000, respectively. Limited studies reported the subsequent impact of introducing national prophylactic HPV immunisation programs on JoRRP epidemiology, but where available, they were associated with significantly reduced incidence rates. Symptomatic presentations were diverse, with voice impact and breathing difficulties commonly reported. More aggressive disease was linked to earlier age of onset and HPV11 genotype. Healthcare utilisation was largely driven by surgical interventions, due to lack of curative treatments. Cost burden was substantial, with JoRRP associated with triple the costs of AoRRP in the US. Patients with JoRRP and AoRRP experienced considerable HRQoL impairment, particularly relating to voice disorder. Conclusion: Extensive clinical, humanistic and economic disease burden was reported for both JoRRP and AoRRP, as it is a chronic condition, with propensity to recur and spread. Feasibility of improving HPV prophylactic vaccination coverage against HPV6/HPV11 should be explored to reduce incidence, alongside efforts to improve treatment of JoRRP and AoRRP patients. Despite the existing literature, RRP remains a poorly understood disease, and future research on risk factors and medical options are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the effects of 12 weeks of aerobic training against baseline data of People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLWH) Cluster of Differentiation 4 (CD4) cell count, and Health-Related Quality of life (HRQoL) (Physical-health Component Summary (PCS) and Mental-health Component Summary (MCS)). A within-subject quasi-experimental multimethod design was used. There was purposive sampling of participants on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) under Botswana Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (BONEPWA). The 28 participants (23 females and 5 males) who met the inclusion criteria were of age 18 to 45. After 6 weeks, one female dropped out of the study. Participants were subjected to 12 weeks of aerobic training, three times a week for 60 minutes per session. The significant differences between CD4 cell count and the HRQoL variables at baseline and week 12 of the participants were compared using the paired t-test. All analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 software. The alpha value was set at p0.05) improvements in CD4 count and PCS measures after intervention. PLWH can be advised to engage in regular aerobic training 3 times a week for 60 minutes especially when on HAART. The research is relatively preliminary; therefore, there could be some replication of the study by other researchers.

Objective Plantar warts (PW) are a benign skin infection of keratinocytes caused by Human Papilloma Virus that can cause significant morbidity leading to an impairment of quality of life (QoL). The objective of this study was to determine the mean Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) in patients with plantar warts. Methods 98 patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional survey conducted in Jinnah Hospital, Lahore. DLQI was determined for each enrolled patient. Results Mean DLQI score was found to be 9.4±5.4 which falls in the category of moderate impairment of QoL. Conclusion PW cause significant morbidity leading to a moderate to severe impairment of DLQI in about two thirds of the cases, especially in young, male and educated subjects with chronic PW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Osteoarthritis (OA) represents a leading cause of disability with limited data available for the Greek patients. Objectives To evaluate the impact of moderate to severe symptomatic hip/knee OA under treatment on physical performance and quality of life. Methods A non-interventional, cross-sectional, epidemiological study of patients with moderate/severe OA, recruited in a single visit from 9 expert sites in Athens, Greece. Assessments were based on commonly used outcome scales: the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the EuroQol-5-Dimensions 3-levels questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L). Results One hundred sixty-four patients were included in the analysis. Most of the patients were females (78.7%), with a mean age of 70.5 ± 10.2 years. Comorbidities were reported by 87.2% of patients with hypertension being the most frequently reported (53.7%), followed by dyslipidemia (31.1%), obesity (24.4%) and diabetes mellitus (23.2%). Paracetamol was the most common treatment (96%), followed by NSAIDs (75%), opioids (50%) and locally applied medications (42.7%). Both hip and knee OA patients showed substantial deterioration in health-related quality of life (QoL) and health status as reflected by the HOOS/KOOS (Function in sport and recreation was the most impaired subscale, followed by Hip- or Knee-related QoL). The mean EQ-5D-3L index score was 0.396 ± 0.319 and the mean EQ-VAS score was 52.1 ± 1.9. When compared indirectly to the local population norms our OA population had worse QoL indices. Conclusion Our findings suggest the functional disability and impaired QoL of Greek patients with moderate/severe hip/knee OA under treatment emphasizing the need for novel treatments that will reduce the burden of the disease.

This study compared the effects of 12 weeks of aerobic training against baseline data of People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLWH) Cluster of Differentiation 4 (CD4) cell count, and Health-Related Quality of life (HRQoL) (Physical-health Component Summary (PCS) and Mental-health Component Summary (MCS)). A within-subject quasi-experimental multimethod design was used. There was purposive sampling of participants on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) under Botswana Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (BONEPWA). The 28 participants (23 females and 5 males) who met the inclusion criteria were of age 18 to 45. After 6 weeks, one female dropped out of the study. Participants were subjected to 12 weeks of aerobic training, three times a week for 60 minutes per session. The significant differences between CD4 cell count and the HRQoL variables at baseline and week 12 of the participants were compared using the paired t-test. All analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 software. The alpha value was set at p<0.05 level of significance. The mean age and standard deviation of participants was 37.7 (± 6.84) years. Statistically significant (p< 0.05) improvements were found in MCS measures after intervention. There were no statistically significant (p>0.05) improvements in CD4 count and PCS measures after intervention. PLWH can be advised to engage in regular aerobic training 3 times a week for 60 minutes especially when on HAART. The research is relatively preliminary; therefore, there could be some replication of the study by other researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To determine the predictability of the MARKO questionnaire and/or its domains, individually or in combination with other markers and characteristics (age, gender, smoking history, lung function, 6-min walk test (6 MWT), exhaled breath temperature (EBT), and hsCRP for the incident chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in subjects at risk over 2 years follow-up period). Participants and Methods: Patients, smokers/ex-smokers with >20 pack-years, aged 40-65 years of both sexes were recruited and followed for 2 years. After recruitment and signing the informed consent at the GP, a detailed diagnostic workout was done by the pulmonologist; they completed three self-assessment questionnaires--MARKO, SGRQ and CAT, detailed history and physical, laboratory (CBC, hsCRP), lung function tests with bronchodilator and EBT. At the 2 year follow-up visit they performed: the same three self-assessment questionnaires, history and physical, lung function tests and EBT. Results: A sample of 320 subjects (41.9% male), mean (SD) age 51.9 (7.4) years with 36.4 (17.4) pack-years of smoking was reassessed after 2.1 years. Exploratory factor analysis of MARKO questionnaire isolated three distinct domains (breathlessness and fatigue, "exacerbations", cough and expectorations). We have determined a rate for incident COPD that was 4.911/100 person-years (95% CI [3.436-6.816]). We found out that questions about breathlessness and "exacerbations", and male sex were predictive of incident COPD after two years follow-up (AUC 0.79, 95% CI [0.74-0.84], p < 0.001). When only active smokers were analyzed a change in EBT after a cigarette (ΔEBT) was added to a previous model (AUC 0.83, 95% CI [0.78-0.88], p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our preliminary data shows that the MARKO questionnaire combined with EBT (change after a cigarette smoke) could potentially serve as early markers of future COPD in smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To determine the predictability of the MARKO questionnaire and/or its domains, individually or in combination with other markers and characteristics (age, gender, smoking history, lung function, 6-min walk test (6 MWT), exhaled breath temperature (EBT), and hsCRP for the incident chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in subjects at risk over 2 years follow-up period). Participants and Methods Patients, smokers/ex-smokers with >20 pack-years, aged 40–65 years of both sexes were recruited and followed for 2 years. After recruitment and signing the informed consent at the GP, a detailed diagnostic workout was done by the pulmonologist; they completed three self-assessment questionnaires—MARKO, SGRQ and CAT, detailed history and physical, laboratory (CBC, hsCRP), lung function tests with bronchodilator and EBT. At the 2 year follow-up visit they performed: the same three self-assessment questionnaires, history and physical, lung function tests and EBT. Results A sample of 320 subjects (41.9% male), mean (SD) age 51.9 (7.4) years with 36.4 (17.4) pack-years of smoking was reassessed after 2.1 years. Exploratory factor analysis of MARKO questionnaire isolated three distinct domains (breathlessness and fatigue, “exacerbations”, cough and expectorations). We have determined a rate for incident COPD that was 4.911/100 person-years (95% CI [3.436–6.816]). We found out that questions about breathlessness and “exacerbations”, and male sex were predictive of incident COPD after two years follow-up (AUC 0.79, 95% CI [0.74–0.84], p < 0.001). When only active smokers were analyzed a change in EBT after a cigarette (ΔEBT) was added to a previous model (AUC 0.83, 95% CI [0.78–0.88], p < 0.001). Conclusion Our preliminary data shows that the MARKO questionnaire combined with EBT (change after a cigarette smoke) could potentially serve as early markers of future COPD in smokers.

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) represents a leading cause of disability with limited data available for the Greek patients. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of moderate to severe symptomatic hip/knee OA under treatment on physical performance and quality of life. Methods: A non-interventional, cross-sectional, epidemiological study of patients with moderate/severe OA, recruited in a single visit from 9 expert sites in Athens, Greece. Assessments were based on commonly used outcome scales: the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the EuroQol-5-Dimensions 3-levels questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L). Results: One hundred sixty-four patients were included in the analysis. Most of the patients were females (78.7%), with a mean age of 70.5 ± 10.2 years. Comorbidities were reported by 87.2% of patients with hypertension being the most frequently reported (53.7%), followed by dyslipidemia (31.1%), obesity (24.4%) and diabetes mellitus (23.2%). Paracetamol was the most common treatment (96%), followed by NSAIDs (75%), opioids (50%) and locally applied medications (42.7%). Both hip and knee OA patients showed substantial deterioration in health-related quality of life (QoL) and health status as reflected by the HOOS/KOOS (Function in sport and recreation was the most impaired subscale, followed by Hip- or Knee-related QoL). The mean EQ-5D-3L index score was 0.396 ± 0.319 and the mean EQ-VAS score was 52.1 ± 1.9. When compared indirectly to the local population norms our OA population had worse QoL indices. Conclusion: Our findings suggest the functional disability and impaired QoL of Greek patients with moderate/severe hip/knee OA under treatment emphasizing the need for novel treatments that will reduce the burden of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trauma-exposed adults with high levels of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) report poorer health-related quality of life (HRQOL), but less is known about the persistence of this relationship over time. Participants from the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging reported on PTSS, health, and sociodemographic characteristics at average age 38; 775 participants reported having been exposed to trauma. Later, at average ages 56 and 62, mental and physical HRQOL were assessed with the Short-Form 36. Premorbid risk for anxiety/neuroticism was evaluated with a polygenic risk score derived from a large genome-wide association study meta-analysis. In multivariate mixed models, having higher levels of PTSS, poorer self-rated health, lower income, and less education at age 38 were associated with worse physical and mental HRQOL two decades later. Chronic health problems at age 38 predicted midlife physical but not mental HRQOL. Although genetic risk for neuroticism was correlated with HRQOL and PTSS, it was no longer significant in multivariate models. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) predicts morbidity and mortality independently of objective health measures; early interventions may help to mitigate the ongoing impact of trauma on quality of life.

Abstract Background Individuals with low socioeconomic status experience higher prevalence and worse outcomes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We undertook a quality improvement initiative at our safety net hospital in which a nurse practitioner (NP)/community health worker (CHW) team followed patients with COPD, frequent admissions, and unmet SDOH needs from hospitalization through one month post-discharge. We report our mixed methods approach to inform development and preliminary evaluation of this intervention. Methods We first assessed characteristics of patients admitted with COPD in 2018 (n = 1811), performing multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with ≥ 2 admissions per year. We then tested a standardized tool to screen for unmet SDOH needs in a convenience sample of 51 frequently hospitalized patients with COPD. From January–July 2019, we pilot tested the NP/CHW intervention with 57 patients, reviewed NP/CHW logs, and conducted qualitative interviews with 16 patient participants to explore impressions of the intervention. Results Patients with Medicaid insurance, mental health disorders, cardiac disease, and substance use disorder had increased odds of having ≥ 2 admissions. COPD severity, comorbidities, and unmet SDOH needs made COPD self-management challenging. Seventy-four percent of frequently admitted patients with COPD completing SDOH screening had unmet SDOH needs. Patients perceived that the NP/CHW intervention addressed these barriers by connecting them to resources and providing emotional support. Conclusions Many patients with COPD admitted at our safety-net hospital experience unmet SDOH needs that impede COPD self-management. A longitudinal NP/CHW intervention to address unmet SDOH needs following discharge appears feasible and acceptable.

Abstract Background Menstrual symptoms have been identified as a substantial burden among women of reproductive age, affecting their health status and quality of life globally. A range of menstrual symptoms have been studied as they affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL), showing variations across specific menstrual symptoms and study settings. A major concern is demonstrated due to menstrual symptoms in women’s professional and social life, and consequently societal and economic loss for women and the society at large. Yet evidence is scarce that estimates the index form HRQoL score related to menstrual symptoms that is needed for health economic evaluations. Methods This study aims to investigate the association between menstrual symptoms and the HRQoL among working women in Japan in an index form, using a self-reporting questionnaire (n = 6048). The EQ-5D-3L (EuroQoL 5-dimension 3-level) is used that is a widely used tool to measure health outcomes for health economic evaluations globally. Multivariate regression analysis is conducted to assess the association between the HRQoL score and specific nineteen physical and mental conditions related to menstruation (e.g., pain, heavy bleeding, concentration, negative affect). Results The index form HRQoL score for menstrual symptoms is estimated as 0.682 in the study population (where a score one suggests perfect health). The association of the HRQoL score varies substantially across the menstrual symptoms. Several of the physical conditions and disorders show a substantial negative association with the HRQoL score. Also, most of the mental and psychological issues are significantly and negatively related to the HRQoL score. Conclusions This study suggests that HRQoL is substantially and negatively affected by menstruation among working women in Japan. Distinct variations of negative influences across menstrual symptoms underscore the multi-dimensional nature of menstruation and consequently the need of collective interventions to address these difficulties. The evidence of HRQoL continues to be an important area for future research on women’s health and health economic evaluations to inform effective and efficient resource allocations for relevant health policies and financing strategies.

Background: Individuals with low socioeconomic status experience higher prevalence and worse outcomes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We undertook a quality improvement initiative at our safety net hospital in which a nurse practitioner (NP)/community health worker (CHW) team followed patients with COPD, frequent admissions, and unmet SDOH needs from hospitalization through one month post-discharge. We report our mixed methods approach to inform development and preliminary evaluation of this intervention.Methods: We first assessed characteristics of patients admitted with COPD in 2018 (n = 1811), performing multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with ≥ 2 admissions per year. We then tested a standardized tool to screen for unmet SDOH needs in a convenience sample of 51 frequently hospitalized patients with COPD. From January-July 2019, we pilot tested the NP/CHW intervention with 57 patients, reviewed NP/CHW logs, and conducted qualitative interviews with 16 patient participants to explore impressions of the intervention.Results: Patients with Medicaid insurance, mental health disorders, cardiac disease, and substance use disorder had increased odds of having ≥ 2 admissions. COPD severity, comorbidities, and unmet SDOH needs made COPD self-management challenging. Seventy-four percent of frequently admitted patients with COPD completing SDOH screening had unmet SDOH needs. Patients perceived that the NP/CHW intervention addressed these barriers by connecting them to resources and providing emotional support.Conclusions: Many patients with COPD admitted at our safety-net hospital experience unmet SDOH needs that impede COPD self-management. A longitudinal NP/CHW intervention to address unmet SDOH needs following discharge appears feasible and acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background When curative treatments are no longer available for cancer patients, the aim of treatment is palliative. The emphasis of palliative care is on optimizing quality of life and provided support for patients nearing end of life. However, chemotherapy is often offered as a palliative therapy for patients with advanced cancer nearing death. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the state of the science relative to use of palliative chemotherapy and maintenance of quality of life in patients with advanced cancer who were at end of life. Materials and methods Published research from January 2010 to December 2019 was reviewed using PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, Proquest, ISI web of science, Science Direct, and Scopus databases. MeSH keywords including quality of life, health related quality of life, cancer chemotherapy, drug therapy, end of life care, palliative care, palliative therapy, and palliative treatment. Findings 13 studies were evaluated based on inclusion criteria. Most of these studies identified that reduced quality of life was associated with receipt of palliative chemotherapy in patients with advanced cancer at the end of life. Conclusion Studies have primarily been conducted in European and American countries. Cultural background of patients may impact quality of life at end of life. More research is needed in developing countries including Mideastern and Asian countries.

Oral cancer is the second most common disease affecting Indian population. Though better surgical, reconstruction and effective chemo/radiation protocols available these days improving the disease related outcomes, the debilitating effect of such therapeutic intervention on long term has negative impact on the quality of life of such patients. It has been drastically affected in many ways such as pain, disfigurement, social activity, health and functional impairment of speech and deglutition. For these reasons, the measurements of quality of life of patients are emerging trend nowadays. This study aims to evaluate the health related quality of life of patients affected with oral cancer and treated by surgery.

Background: Prescription auditing is one of the important tool to avoid misuse of drugs and improves rational use of drugs. The performance of the health care providers related to the appropriate use of drugs can be accessed by analyzing the different prescribing indicators. An Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) can be defined as 'an appreciably harmful or unpleasant reaction resulting from an intervention related to the use of a medicinal product. This can be assessed by using probability scale, severity assessment scales, etc. Objectives: The main objective of the study was to audit the prescriptions, evaluate the incidence of ADR and assess health related quality of life. Methodology: A Prospective interventional study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital in south Kerala during the study period of 6 months. A total no.of 235 inpatients in general medicine department were included during the study. Results: Out of 235 prescriptions, 1742 drugs were analyzed using prescription auditing checklist. The average no.of drugs were prescribed about 7.41. The incidence of ADRs is 0.025 and 6 were identified and analyzed using Naranjo scale and Hartwig severity assessment scale. In health related quality of life shows significance in age, BMI, gender, socioeconomic status and prescribing indicators in different aspects. Conclusion: There is a need for improvement in the standards of prescription patterns in all aspects. The health related quality of life will helps to assess physical and mental attitudes of patients which may affect their drug therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Menstrual symptoms have been identified as a substantial burden among women of reproductive age, affecting their health status and quality of life globally. A range of menstrual symptoms have been studied as they affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL), showing variations across specific menstrual symptoms and study settings. A major concern is demonstrated due to menstrual symptoms in women's professional and social life, and consequently societal and economic loss for women and the society at large. Yet evidence is scarce that estimates the index form HRQoL score related to menstrual symptoms that is needed for health economic evaluations.Methods: This study aims to investigate the association between menstrual symptoms and the HRQoL among working women in Japan in an index form, using a self-reporting questionnaire (n = 6048). The EQ-5D-3L (EuroQoL 5-dimension 3-level) is used that is a widely used tool to measure health outcomes for health economic evaluations globally. Multivariate regression analysis is conducted to assess the association between the HRQoL score and specific nineteen physical and mental conditions related to menstruation (e.g., pain, heavy bleeding, concentration, negative affect).Results: The index form HRQoL score for menstrual symptoms is estimated as 0.682 in the study population (where a score one suggests perfect health). The association of the HRQoL score varies substantially across the menstrual symptoms. Several of the physical conditions and disorders show a substantial negative association with the HRQoL score. Also, most of the mental and psychological issues are significantly and negatively related to the HRQoL score.Conclusions: This study suggests that HRQoL is substantially and negatively affected by menstruation among working women in Japan. Distinct variations of negative influences across menstrual symptoms underscore the multi-dimensional nature of menstruation and consequently the need of collective interventions to address these difficulties. The evidence of HRQoL continues to be an important area for future research on women's health and health economic evaluations to inform effective and efficient resource allocations for relevant health policies and financing strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has been brought up for decades in haemophilia patients. However, no data to date are available about HRQoL in children with haemophilia using long-term follow up data. This nearly 4-year follow-up study aimed to assess the long-term HRQoL of haemophilia children. Methods A prospective cohort study among 42 children with haemophilia and their parents was conducted in August 2014 in a children’s hospital; follow-up was completed in January 2018. Primary endpoint was the change in patient HRQoL evaluated by Canadian Haemophilia Outcomes–Kids’ Life Assessment Tool (CHO-KLAT) from baseline to year 4; secondary endpoint was the impact of bleeding rates, physical activity restriction, financial burden and treatment (prophylaxis vs on-demand treatment) on HRQoL, as well as the impact of treatment on event-free survival. Results Totally 42 patients (mean age, 5.48[SD, 4.63] years) and 42 parents were included. 38 families completed 4-year follow up. Patients reported a small increase in HRQoL from baseline to year 4. The mean scores of child self-report and parent proxy report of CHO-KLAT at baseline were 60.69 (SD = 20.28) and 61.01 (SD = 12.14), respectively. Scores at follow-up were 64.69 (SD = 13.71) and 65.33 (SD = 15.78), respectively. Haemophilia patients without physical activity restriction, living in urban areas, and receiving prophylactic treatment and home injection, had higher average values for HRQoL scores than the others. Bleeding rates were proportionally negatively correlated with HRQoL. Patients who had received prophylactic treatment had better event-free survival. Conclusions Haemophilia decreased HRQoL of patients, but this effect weakened after 4 years. HRQoL of children is influenced by severity of haemophilia, bleeding rates, physical activity restriction, financial burden and treatment. Prophylactic treatment is a key factor contributing to event-free survivor prognosis and the optimal form of therapy for childhood haemophilia.

Background: The world is currently undergoing a pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19). According to the World Health Organization, patients with chronic illnesses appear to be at the highest risk for COVID-19 associated sequelae. Inability to participate in outpatient-based rehabilitation programs and being home-bound can increase the risk for and potential worsening of chronic health conditions. This study evaluated the short-term effects of telerehabilitation on patients’ walk test performance and health related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: 47 patients (23 cardiovascular, 15 pulmonary, 9 oncology) participated in the telerehabilitation program. At baseline and following a 1-month intervention, patients had their 6-minute walk test distance (6MWTD) and HRQoL assessed. Average daily step counts were measured by the PACER App. Conclusion: Our results indicate that a short-term, supervised virtual telerehabilitation program had significant positive effects on 6MWTD and HRQoL in cardiac, pulmonary and oncology patients during COVID-19.

Background: The world is currently undergoing a pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19). According to the World Health Organization, patients with chronic illnesses appear to be at the highest risk for COVID-19 associated sequelae. Inability to participate in outpatient-based rehabilitation programs and being home-bound can increase the risk for and potential worsening of chronic health conditions. This study evaluated the short-term effects of telerehabilitation on patients' walk test performance and health related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: 47 patients (23 cardiovascular, 15 pulmonary, 9 oncology) participated in the telerehabilitation program. At baseline and following a 1-month intervention, patients had their 6-minute walk test distance (6MWTD) and HRQoL assessed. Average daily step counts were measured by the PACER App. Conclusion: Our results indicate that a short-term, supervised virtual telerehabilitation program had significant positive effects on 6MWTD and HRQoL in cardiac, pulmonary and oncology patients during COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Obesity is an emerging global public health concern as it is related to chronic diseases and its impact to health related quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of weight reduction on health related quality of life (HRQOL) among obese and overweight housewives. Methods Data on 123 obese and overweight housewives in the intervention group from the MyBFF@home study were utilised. A validated Malaysian Malay version of Obesity Weight Loss Quality of Life (OWLQOL) questionnaire was administered at baseline and 6 months after intervention. Descriptive analysis, univariate analysis, paired t-test and multiple logistic regression were performed using SPSS Version 22. Results Mean body mass index (BMI) was 31.5 kg/m2 (SD:4.13), with 51 participants classified as overweight (41.5%) while 72 were obese (58.5%). About 72% of the housewives experienced weight reduction (62% reduced weight less than 5% and 11% reduced weight more than 5% of their baseline weight). There was a significant improvement in HRQOL with a pre-intervention total mean score of 59.82 (SD: 26.60) and post-intervention of 66.13 (SD: 22.82), p-value

Peter K Aalund, Eva N Glassou, Torben B Hansen University Clinic for Hand, Hip and Knee Surgery, Regional Hospital West Jutland, Aarhus University, Holstebro, Denmark Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a common surgical procedure and approximately 9,500 of these surgeries are performed annually in Denmark. The operation is considered effective and successful with respect to complications, mortality, and implant survival. However, using patient-reported outcome measures, up to 10% of patients are not satisfied with the outcome of their operation. To address this, it is important to find out why some patients experience impaired outcomes after THA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of age and preoperative health-related quality of life (HRQoL) on improvements in HRQoL after THA.Methods: A cohort study was conducted with follow-up at 3 and 12 months. Patients were included from September 2008 to December 2013. We analyzed 1,283 THA cases. HRQoL was measured using the EuroQol-5 Domain. Analyses were carried out with multiple linear regression and adjusted for relevant variables available in the data set.Results: A significant positive association was found between age and HRQoL outcomes for patients who underwent THA at both 3 (β [regression coefficient] 0.0026, confidence interval [CI] 0.0013; 0.0039, p

Reimbursement decisions on new oncology drugs are now often made while uncertainty remains about a drug's risk–benefit profile. One consequence of this is a delay in patient access to valuable new medicines. We share our perspectives on strategies to mitigate sources of uncertainty in the health technology assessment process. These include flexible approaches for evaluating the additional benefit, such as better use of surrogate endpoints and health-related quality of life data, and renewed research efforts to define the optimal target population and generate real-world evidence post-authorisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has been brought up for decades in haemophilia patients. However, no data to date are available about HRQoL in children with haemophilia using long-term follow up data. This nearly 4-year follow-up study aimed to assess the long-term HRQoL of haemophilia children.Methods: A prospective cohort study among 42 children with haemophilia and their parents was conducted in August 2014 in a children's hospital; follow-up was completed in January 2018. Primary endpoint was the change in patient HRQoL evaluated by Canadian Haemophilia Outcomes-Kids' Life Assessment Tool (CHO-KLAT) from baseline to year 4; secondary endpoint was the impact of bleeding rates, physical activity restriction, financial burden and treatment (prophylaxis vs on-demand treatment) on HRQoL, as well as the impact of treatment on event-free survival.Results: Totally 42 patients (mean age, 5.48[SD, 4.63] years) and 42 parents were included. 38 families completed 4-year follow up. Patients reported a small increase in HRQoL from baseline to year 4. The mean scores of child self-report and parent proxy report of CHO-KLAT at baseline were 60.69 (SD = 20.28) and 61.01 (SD = 12.14), respectively. Scores at follow-up were 64.69 (SD = 13.71) and 65.33 (SD = 15.78), respectively. Haemophilia patients without physical activity restriction, living in urban areas, and receiving prophylactic treatment and home injection, had higher average values for HRQoL scores than the others. Bleeding rates were proportionally negatively correlated with HRQoL. Patients who had received prophylactic treatment had better event-free survival.Conclusions: Haemophilia decreased HRQoL of patients, but this effect weakened after 4 years. HRQoL of children is influenced by severity of haemophilia, bleeding rates, physical activity restriction, financial burden and treatment. Prophylactic treatment is a key factor contributing to event-free survivor prognosis and the optimal form of therapy for childhood haemophilia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article investigates the value of canagliflozin in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus from the perspective of a clinically-based patient-centred approach. It focusses on the outcomes of a 52-week double-blind, active-controlled study. The results of this clinical trial demonstrate that canagliflozin, which provides significant weight loss ability, improves the quality of life and satisfaction with physical and emotional health in patients with diabetes compared with sitagliptin.

Reimbursement decisions on new oncology drugs are now often made while uncertainty remains about a drug's risk–benefit profile. One consequence of this is a delay in patient access to valuable new medicines. We share our perspectives on strategies to mitigate sources of uncertainty in the health technology assessment process. These include flexible approaches for evaluating the additional benefit, such as better use of surrogate endpoints and health-related quality of life data, and renewed research efforts to define the optimal target population and generate real-world evidence post-authorisation.

Background: β-Thalassemia is a prevalent genetic disease in Mediterranean countries. The most common treatments for this disease are blood transfusion plus iron chelation (BTIC) therapy and bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Patients using these procedures experience different health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The purpose of the present study was to measure HRQoL in these patients using 2 different multiattribute quality of life (QoL) scales. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data were gathered using 3 instruments: a socio-demographic questionnaire, EQ-5D, and SF-36. A total of 196 patients with β-thalassemia were randomly selected from 2 hospitals in Shiraz (Southern Iran). Data were analyzed using logistic regression and multiple regression models to identify factors that affect the patients’ HRQoL. Results: The average EQ-5D index and EQ visual analog scale (VAS) scores were 0.86 (95% CI: 0.83–0.89) and 71.85 (95% CI: 69.13–74.58), respectively. Patients with BMT reported significantly higher EQ VAS scores (83.27 vs 68.55, respectively). The results showed that patients who lived in rural area and patients with BMT reported higher EQ VAS scores (rural; β=10.25, P=.006 and BMT; β=11.88, P=.000). As well, SF-36 between 2 groups of patients were statistically significant in physical component scale (PCS). Conclusion: Patients in the BMT group experienced higher HRQoL in both physical and mental aspects compared to those in the BTIC group. More studies are needed to assess the relative cost-effectiveness of these methods in developing countries.

El estado de bienestar en que vivimos en los países desarrollados hace que surja la necesidad de buscar herramientas que sean una imagen fiel del estado de salud de la población como es la medición de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud. El objetivo de nuestro estudio es conocer la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) de los trabajadores sanitarios como medida de su estado de salud. Para ello hemos realizado un estudio transversal, prospectivo y descriptivo de una muestra de 542 trabajadores seleccionada por muestreo sistemático. Como variable dependiente se evaluó la CVRS a través del cuestionario SF-36. Este cuestionario evalúa el estado de salud a través de 7 escalas (Función física, rol físico, salud general, vitalidad, función social, rol emocional y salud mental) valoradas de 0 a 100 (siendo 100 el mejor valor) y de dos dominios globales estandarizados para población general siendo su valor 50, (índice general de salud física e índice general de salud mental). Se tiene en cuenta la edad y el sexo para el análisis de los resultados. Los resultados más relevantes obtenidos son: Edad media 46 años (DE 10,4), 82% mujeres. Función física: 88.7 (Población general-PG-: 84.7); Rol físico: 86.5 (PG: 83.2); Dolor: 71.9 (PG: 79); Salud general: 70 (PG: 68.3); Vitalidad: 66.1 (PG: 66.9); Función social: 86.4 (PG: 90.1); Rol emocional: 87.8 (PG: 88.6); Salud mental: 72.6 (PG: 73). Índice global de salud física: 51.9; Índice global de salud mental: 49.8. Los valores encontrados tanto para las escalas de salud física como mental son ligeramente mejores que los establecidos para la población general para el mismo rango de edad y sexo, salvo en la escala de dolor.The welfare state in whom we live in the developed countries does that there arises the need to look for tools that are a faithful image of the health of the population such as it is the measurement of the quality of life related to the health. The aim of our study is to know the health related quality of life (HRQOL) of the sanitary workers as measure of their health status. For it we have realized a cross-sectional, prospective and descriptive study of a sample of 542 workers selected by systematic sampling. The dependent variable was assessed HRQOL by the SF-36. This questionnaire assesses the health status across 7 scales (physical function, role physical, general health, vitality, social function, emotional role and mental health) from 0 to 100 (100 being the best value) and two global domains standardized for general population value being 50, (general index of physical health, and general index of mental health). It takes into account the age and the sex for the analysis of the results. The most important results obtained are: Middle Age 46 years (SD 10,4), 82 % women. Physical function: 88.7 (PG-general population: 84.7), role physical, 86.5 (PG: 83.2); Pain 71.9 (PG 79), general health: 70 (PG: 68.3); Vitality: 66.1 (PG: 66.9 ), social function: 86.4 (PG: 90.1), Role emotional 87.8 (PG: 88.6); Mental Health: 72.6 (PG 73). Global index of physical health: 51.9; global Index of mental health: 49.8. The values found so much for the scales of physical as mental health are lightly better than the established ones for the general population for the same range of age and sex, except in the scale of pain.

The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spiritual Well-Being (FACIT-Sp-12) is a 12-item questionnaire that measures spiritual well-being in people with cancer and other chronic illnesses. Cancer patients, psychotherapists, and religious/spiritual experts provided input on the development of the items. It was validated with a large, ethnically diverse sample. It has been successfully used to assess spiritual well-being across a wide range of religious traditions, including those who identify themselves as “spiritual yet not religious.” Part of the larger FACIT measurement system that assesses multidimensional health related quality of life (HRQOL), the FACIT-Sp-12 has been translated and linguistically validated in 15 languages and has been used in dozens of studies examining the relationships among spiritual well-being, health, and adjustment to illness.

Background: Over the last two decades, there has been phenomenal advancement in critical care medicine and patient management. Many patients recover from life-threatening illnesses that they might not have survived a decade ago. Despite a decrease in mortality, these survivors endure long-lasting sequelae like physical, mental, and emotional symptoms., Methods: Patients after intensive care unit (ICU) discharge were assessed in a follow-up outpatient department (OPD) clinic for anxiety, stress, and depression. Patients were asked to fill out the questionnaires Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) for assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) at 4th, 6th, and 8th months after discharge. ICU data were recorded, including patients' demographics, severity of illness and length of stay, and duration of mechanical ventilation. Patients who failed to follow-up in OPD on designated dates were assessed telephonically., Results: Depression showed a positive, strong, and moderate correlation between length of stay and mechanical ventilation duration. A positive correlation was found between stress and length of stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. A positive strong correlation was found between anxiety and length of ICU stay, and a moderate positive correlation was found between anxiety and duration of mechanical ventilation. A weak correlation was found between age and neuropsychiatric outcomes., Conclusion: The severity of depression, anxiety, and stress was significantly higher at four months compared to six months. Severity decreased with time. Prolonged ICU stay increased levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. HRQOL improved from four to six months., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2023, Joshi et al.)

Background: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is an effective palliation treatment in men with advanced prostate cancer (PC). However, ADT has well documented side effects that could alter the patient's health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The current study aims to test whether a genetic stratification could provide better knowledge for optimising ADT options to minimize HRQoL effects.Methods: A cohort of 206 PC survivors (75 treated with and 131 without ADT) was recruited with written consent to collect patient characteristics, clinical data and HRQoL data related to PC management. The primary outcomes were the percentage scores under each HRQoL subscale assessed using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life questionnaires (QLQ-C30 and PR25) and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales developed by the University of Melbourne, Australia. Genotyping of these men was carried out for the aldo-keto reductase family 1, member C3 (AKR1C3) rs12529 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). Analysis of HRQoL scores were carried out against ADT duration and in association with the AKR1C3 rs12529 SNP using the generalised linear model. P-values <0 · 05 were considered significant, and were further tested for restriction with Bonferroni correction.Results: Increase in hormone treatment-related effects were recorded with long-term ADT compared to no ADT. The C and G allele frequencies of the AKR1C3rs12529 SNP were 53·4 % and 46·6 % respectively. Hormone treatment-related symptoms showed an increase with ADT when associated with the AKR1C3 rs12529 G allele. Meanwhile, decreasing trends on cancer-specific symptoms and increased sexual interest were recorded with no ADT when associated with the AKR1C3 rs12529 G allele and reverse trends with the C allele. As higher incidence of cancer-specific symptoms relate to cancer retention it is possible that associated with the C allele there could be higher incidence of unresolved cancers under no ADT options.Conclusions: If these findings can be reproduced in larger homogeneous cohorts, a genetic stratification based on the AKR1C3 rs12529 SNP, can minimize ADT-related HRQoL effects in PC patients. Our data additionally show that with this stratification it could also be possible to identify men needing ADT for better oncological advantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The concept of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was brought up decades ago and has been well utilized in many different areas. Regarding immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) management, much work has been done to emphasize the necessity of taking HRQoL into consideration. However, data on HRQoL of children with chronic ITP remain rare.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. Children with chronic ITP aged from 2 to 18 and their parents were recruited. Participants completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL™) and Kids' ITP Tools (KIT) questionnaires at only one time. The Pearson's correlation was examined between these measures for the pooled samples.Results: A total of 42 families participated. Mean child self-report scores of KIT and PedsQL™ were 78.60 (SD = 12.40) and 85.13 (SD = 14.12), respectively, corresponding to parent proxy report scores, which were 73.40 (SD = 19.96) and 85.10 (SD = 13.56), respectively. Mean score of KIT parent impact report was only 40.39 (SD = 19.96). Significantly higher KIT scores (self-report and parent proxy) were observed in children with PLT more than 30 × 10*9/L compared to others, and this difference was even more noticeable in the PedsQL™ parent proxy report group (p < 0.001). As with intravenous immunoglobulin, the statistics difference appeared only in KIT child self-report group (p = 0.03), while for bone marrow examination, the difference appeared only in PedsQL™ parent proxy report group (p = 0.01). A negative relationship was apparent between duration of disease and scores. Gender and use of corticosteroids had no impact on the KIT and PedsQL™ scores here. Internal consistency reliability was demonstrated with Cronbach's alpha for all scales above the acceptable level of 0.89 (range from 0.88 to 0.97). There was a substantial concordance (p < 0.001) between the child and parent proxy scores (ICC for KIT is 0.59, ICC for PedsQL™ is 0.85). Meanwhile, KIT scores are correlated with PedsQL™ (r = 0.75 for child self report, r = 0.61 for parent proxy report).Conclusions: ITP affects HRQoL of children and parents. Parents are much more concerned with the disease than their children, which seriously influence their HRQoL as a result. The cross-culture translated KIT is reliable and valid with acceptable correlation to the PedsQL™. KIT provides valuable information of childhood ITP and will be a reliable outcome measure for further clinical research on HRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analyzed data from the EQ-5D questionnaire to assess health related quality of life in patients with thyroid diseases. Response data on 26 patients (16 patients with nodular goiter, 10 patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases) and 11 healthy controls are summarized. Results: We found a moderate statistical dependence between the three investigated groups and the presence of pain (X² = 7.739; p = 0.045; Cramer's V = 0.337). We found a statistically significant difference between the three groups (patients with nodular formations, patients with thyroid autoimmune diseases and controls) and the index of health status. There was a statistically significant lower mean index of health status in patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases (58) compared to healthy controls (80). In conclusion, evaluation the quality of life in patients with thyroid disorders by the use of the questionnaire EQ-5D for showed the presence of differences in both in patients with nodular goiter and in those with autoimmune thyroid diseases compared to controls. It is necessary to introduce in clinical practice specific and more detailed questionnaires to assess quality of life in patients with thyroid diseases and the effect of ongoing treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: β-Thalassemia is a prevalent genetic disease in Mediterranean countries. The most common treatments for this disease are blood transfusion plus iron chelation (BTIC) therapy and bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Patients using these procedures experience different health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The purpose of the present study was to measure HRQoL in these patients using 2 different multiattribute quality of life (QoL) scales. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data were gathered using 3 instruments: a socio-demographic questionnaire, EQ-5D, and SF-36. A total of 196 patients with β-thalassemia were randomly selected from 2 hospitals in Shiraz (Southern Iran). Data were analyzed using logistic regression and multiple regression models to identify factors that affect the patients' HRQoL. Results: The average EQ-5D index and EQ visual analog scale (VAS) scores were 0.86 (95% CI: 0.83-0.89) and 71.85 (95% CI: 69.13-74.58), respectively. Patients with BMT reported significantly higher EQ VAS scores (83.27 vs 68.55, respectively). The results showed that patients who lived in rural area and patients with BMT reported higher EQ VAS scores (rural; β = 10.25, P = .006 and BMT; β = 11.88, P = .000). As well, SF-36 between 2 groups of patients were statistically significant in physical component scale (PCS). Conclusion: Patients in the BMT group experienced higher HRQoL in both physical and mental aspects compared to those in the BTIC group. More studies are needed to assess the relative cost-effectiveness of these methods in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an effective procedure. However, for some patients, the outcomes are not satisfactory. Identification of TKA determinants could help manage these patients more efficiently. The purpose of this study was to identify pre- and perioperative determinants of pain, functional limitations and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) 6 months after TKA. Methods: 138 participants were recruited from 3 hospitals in Quebec City, Canada and followed up until 6 months after surgery. Data were collected through review of the subjects' medical files and structured telephone interviews before and 6 months after TKA. Pain and functional limitations were measured with the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and HRQoL was measured with the SF-36 Health Survey. Independent variables included demographic, socioeconomic, psychosocial, clinical and surgical characteristics of participants as well as data on health services utilization. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was used to assess the strength of the associations between the independent variables and the WOMAC and SF-36 scores. Results: Higher preoperative pain, cruciate retaining implants and the number of complications were significantly associated with worse pain 6 months after TKA (p < 0.05) and explained 11% of the variance of the WOMAC pain score. Higher preoperative functional limitations, being single, separated, divorced or widowed, being unemployed or retired and the number of complications were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with worse functional limitations 6 months after TKA and explained 16% of the variance of the WOMAC function score. Lower preoperative HRQoL, contralateral knee pain, higher psychological distress and comorbidities were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with worse HRQoL 6 months after TKA and explained 23% of the variance of the SF-36 physical functioning score. Conclusions: Several variables were found to be significantly associated with worse outcomes 6 months after TKA and may help identify patients at risk of poorer outcome. The identification of these determinants could help manage patients more efficiently and may help target patients who may benefit from extensive rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Patients suffering from epilepsy have an impaired health related quality of life (HRQoL) because of seizures and treatment adverse events. Epilepsy affects differently both genders, due to hormonal influence in women. The aim of this study is to assess the impact on HRQoL and treatment satisfaction in epilepsy patients treated with stable doses of lamotrigine and valproic acid. Methods: Observational cohort prospective study was conducted in 18 Spanish neurology sites. Patients with clinically stable partial or generalized epilepsy, already receiving lamotrigine or valproic acid on monotherapy, were assessed in two visits: baseline and at 6 months. Socio-demographic and clinical variables were recorded at baseline; HRQoL (QOLIE-10) treatment satisfaction and women image self-perception were assessed at both visits. Impact on HRQoL was assessed in both treatment arms overall and in the women subgroup. Results: A total of 107 patients were evaluated; 53 (14 men, 39 women) on lamotrigine and 54 (27 men, 27 women) on valproic acid. Mean (SD) age was 30.4 (9.1) years and mean (SD) time since epilepsy diagnosis was 8 (8.1) years. Mean (SD) QOLIE-10 score at baseline was 73.9 (15.7) points (76.6 and 71.4 for lamotrigine and valproic, respectively). At follow up, patients reported better HRQoL on both lamotrigine (78.8 points) (p <0.05) and on valproic (72.4 points) in comparison with baseline. Women''s HRQoL at follow up was better on the lamotrigine arm compared with valproic acid: 78.8 (12.8) vs. 70.3 (15.9) (p <0.05). Women on the lamotrigine arm declared higher satisfaction with treatment and higher disagreement with the different statements referred to a negative image self-perception. Conclusions: Chronic patients with epilepsy already treated with lamotrigine slightly improved HRQoL at 6 month follow up, whereas no significant changes were observed in the valproic acid group. Lamotrigine impact on patients’ HRQoL seems to be even more positive in the subgroup of women. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The purpose of this study is to measure Chinese population health related quality of life (HRQoL) using European quality of life (EQ-5D) instrument, to examine the validity of EQ-5D in measuring Chinese population HRQoL, to explore the relationships between EQ-5D and other health determinants, and to display the similarities and differences of HRQoL between the Chinese population and the populations of other countries. The data used in this study includes 2994 respondents whose age are 12?years and older, which is from the 2000 Beijing Household Health Survey. Univariate and bivariate analyses have been used to examine the level of HRQoL and the relationships between HRQoL and other variables. Multi-variate analyses have been used to explore the relationships between the EQ-5D Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the EQ-5D five dimension indicators. There are four principal findings from this study. First, the EQ-5D instrument is a valid measure for Chinese HRQoL, but with a significant ceiling effect. Second, Pain/Discomfort and Anxiety/Depression are the major Chinese HRQoL problems and the extents of these problems differ in subgroup populations. Third, typically mean scores are lower for older age group; this is observed at lower ages in the Chinese population than in populations from developed countries. Fourth, Chinese HRQoL has strong association relationship with population socio-economic status (SES), which might imply that issues brought on by the rapid economic transition have both positive and negative impacts on Chinese HRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]