Prospective Changes in Health-Related Quality of Life and Emotional Outcomes in Kidney Transplantation over 6 Years

Abstract

Little is known on long-term outcomes in kidney transplantation. This study evaluated changes and predictors of generic and transplantation-specific health-related quality of life (HQoL) over six years in N = 102 kidney transplant survivors using the Short-form Health Survey-36 and the Transplant Effects questionnaire. Mixed models analysis was used to determine long-term outcomes. Emotional HQoL improved over time: Mental Component score, Mental Health, Energy ( P s = .000 ). Physical HQoL deteriorated: Physical Component Score ( P = .001 ), Pain ( P = .002 ). LRD transplant recipients had greater decline in physical functioning ( P = .003 ) and PCS ( P = .000 ) compared to cadaver recipients. Worry about the transplant ( P = .036 ) and feelings of responsibility ( P = .008 ) increased significantly over time. Worry about the transplant and perceived ability to work predicted 12.7% and 31.1% in variance in MCS and PCS, respectively. Efforts should be made to maintain HQoL and emotional outcomes with ongoing monitoring and support programs throughout the course of posttransplant care.