ABSTRACT Background Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of mortality in Bangladesh, yet healthcare access and quality of life (QoL) remain suboptimal. Unlike previous studies in Bangladesh, this research systematically applies Andersen's model to jointly assess health‐seeking behavior (HSB) and QoL, offering a novel framework for policy relevant insights. Methods A cross‐sectional survey was conducted from November 2024 to February 2025 among 1052 adults with clinically confirmed NCDs in urban and rural areas of Dhaka, Khulna, and Mymensingh. Data on sociodemographic, HSB, and QoL (Bangla WHOQoL‐BREF) were collected. Chi‐square tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression identified predictors of HSB and QoL. Results Among 1052 participants, hypertension (36%), diabetes (24%), and cardiovascular disease (18%) were most common. Over half (58%) sought care only in emergencies, mainly due to financial (48%) and access (21%) barriers. Education strongly predicted proactive HSB ( p < 0.001), whereas employment was negatively associated with follow‐up and visits ( p < 0.01). Socioeconomic status predicted higher QoL ( β = 0.174 and p < 0.001), and rural residents reported significantly lower QoL than urban counterparts ( p < 0.001). Men had better psychological health than women ( p < 0.001). Overall, findings highlight socioeconomic, occupational, and geographic disparities in care‐seeking and QoL. Conclusion Patients with NCDs in Bangladesh face delayed care‐seeking, rural–urban disparities, and low uptake of lifestyle modifications. Interventions should prioritize community‐based screening, financial protection schemes, and health literacy programs to improve preventive care and QoL.
Sobur et al. (2026) studied this question.