Utilization of the Short-form 36 to measure health-related quality of life among end-stage kidney diseases patients undergoing hemodialysis: Evidence in central Vietnam

This study aimed to evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment and identify associated factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a hospital in central Vietnam. The Short form – 36 (SF – 36) was used to measure HRQOL. Multivariate Tobit regression was utilised. Results showed that among 95 patients, the mean PCS and MCS scores were 44.18 (SD = 19.45) and 48.74 (SD = 19.82), respectively. In physical components, the highest score was bodily pain (mean = 69.9, SD = 26.36). In mental components, the highest score was social function (mean = 55.13, SD = 14.30). Patients who did not depend on others in self-care had a significantly higher MCS score (Coef. = 24.02, 95%CI = 10.54-37.51) than those who entirely relied on others. Patients with 5 – <10 years of dialysis had a lower MCS score (Coef. = –8.52, 95%CI = –16.35 - -0.70) than those under five years. Having only hypertension as a comorbidity was negatively associated with PCS (Coef. = –6.32, 95%CI = –12.45 – –0.20) and MCS (Coef. = –7.73; 95%CI = –13.13 – –2.33) scores. To conclude, patients with ESKD who undergo dialysis experience a diminished quality of life.