Socio-demographic disparities in health-related quality of life in hypertensive patients in Bangladesh: a comprehensive survey analysis

PURPOSE: Hypertension is a major health concern in Bangladesh. Assessing the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among hypertensive patients in Bangladesh can highlight the broad impacts of the condition on morbidity and mortality. Such insights are essential for developing targeted healthcare and prevention strategies to reduce complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 5,086 hypertensive patients aged between 18 and 80 were recruited from 75 pharmacies in Bangladesh. We assessed the participants' health using the EQ-5D-5 L descriptive system and the EQ-VAS. Utility scores were calculated using the Indian EQ-5D-5 L value set. Regression models were employed to identify factors associated with overall HRQoL and individual health dimensions. RESULTS: Study participants were mean aged 52 years old, with average systolic and diastolic blood pressures of 140.79 mmHg and 85.98 mmHg, respectively. The average EQ-index and EQ-VAS score were 0.83 and 67.47, respectively. 39% reported difficulties with self-care, 43.5% had mobility problems, 80.6% had pain, and 61.2% had anxiety. HRQoL scores decreased significantly with age, according to the multilevel model. Higher education levels, however, were associated with better HRQoL scores. Male respondents reported fewer problems with mobility, self-care, activity, pain, and anxiety. A decrease in HRQoL scores was observed among older individuals, those without formal education, those in lower quintiles, those unemployed, and those with poor blood pressure control, obesity, or fasting glucose. CONCLUSION: Study findings indicate disparities in HRQoL based on age, gender, education, and socioeconomic status, highlighting the need for targeted policy interventions.