Demographic and Clinical Correlates of Quality of Life in Patients with Hepatitis C

Abstract

This research investigated the demographic and clinical correlates of quality of life (QOL) in patients with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). Correlational research design was employed and a sample of 102 patients (N=102) was selected using a purposive sampling technique. The Demographic and Clinical Questionnaire, the Mental Health Screening and the Quality of Life- BREF were used to screen and collect data. Results showed a significant negative relation of age with psychological health and a significant positive relation of education and income with subscales of QOL: physical health, psychological health, and environment. Illness and treatment-related variables, such as the number of side effects, duration from diagnosis, and financial burden due to illness, also influenced the QOL of patients. The present research has important clinical implications for future healthcare interventions. It suggests that demographic and clinical factors of patients must be taken into account for better health outcomes.