Health-related quality of life and sleep disorders among special populations

Abstract

The conceptual domains of health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) examine the complex nature and interactions of overall physical or mental health. HR-QoL data are being used increasingly as outcome indicators in clinical trials, effectiveness research, and quality of care via the generation of health utilities profiles that can inform patient management and policy decisions regarding disease states, patient groups, or areas of function. In the past decade, measures of HR-QoL have been incorporated in sleep research to examine associations between a wide spectrum of sleep disorders and health outcomes in various populations. This chapter provides a snapshot of HR-QoL in sleep research in the USA, France, Japan, Turkey, and China, primarily from large national or international population-based studies. The chapter also incorporates overviews of HR-QoL in special populations: restless legs syndrome, end-stage renal disease, and children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, their parents and caregivers. The summary addresses the need for incorporating measures of HR-QoL in sleep research and interventions to enhance outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and inform policy.