Quality of Life and its Determinants in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus from Two Health Institutions of Sub-himalayan Region of India

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes serious deterioration in general quality of life (QoL) mainly affecting the health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Routine assessment of QoL improves communication with the patient, helps to predict treatment response, and supports clinical decision-making. QoL can predict an individual's capacity to manage the disease and maintain long-term health and wellbeing. AIMS: To find out the QoL and its socio-demographic, anthropometric, and clinical determinants among DM patients attending health institutions from sub-Himalayan region, catering rural population. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This cross-sectional study was conducted in two hospitals mostly catering rural population from 2014 to 2018. Purposive sampling technique was used. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Socio-demographic, anthropometric, and clinical data of DM patients (N = 300) were collected. They were administeredHindi translation of QoL Instrument for Indian Diabetes Patients (QOLID) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). All statistical analyses were carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SSPS) (Version 17.0, USA). RESULTS: About 10% had very poor, 13% poor, 11% average, 16% good, and 50% very good QoL on QOLID. General health (GH) and treatment satisfaction (TS) were the most affected domains. Fatigue was the most common symptom (79%) reported in QOLID. Age more than 55 years, rural background, and PHQ-9 score of more than 7 were predictors of poorer QoL. CONCLUSION: There is a need for a holistic and collaborative care of DM patients, to maintain a good HRQoL. Screening of depression, fatigue, and regular assessment of QoL should be emphasized.