PREDICTORS OF HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS OUTPATIENTS IN CAN THO CITY, VIETNAM

Abstract

Introduction. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a crucial aspect in diabetes research. There is a lack of research on the HRQoL of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the Mekong Delta region, especially in Can Tho City, Vietnam. The objective of the study was to to determine HRQoL score and elicit some related factors of T2D patients in O Mon district, Can Tho city, in 2019-2020. Material and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in patients diagnosed with T2D and currently managed at health stations in O Mon district, Can Tho city, from December 31st, 2019, to September 30th, 2020. Data was collected through direct interviews with study participants, using short form 36 Vietnamese version including 8 scales (physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, social functioning, role-emotional, mental health, vitality). Results. HRQoL mean scores of 8 health scales ranged between 45.31 and 81.72. Social functioning had the highest score, and general health had the lowest score. Older individuals, retirees, or housewives, those with lower economic status, longer treatment duration, comorbidities and complications, insulin injections, and poor glycemic control had a lower quality of life mean scores. Conclusions. The study found that patients with T2D had the lowest HRQoL. The district health center in Can Tho should provide education and guidance for patients with low quality of life scores. Healthcare professionals should pay attention to this group of patients, and to ensure appropriate care.