Health-related quality of life in asthma: a cross-sectional study from Iraq

Abstract

Background
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease that significantly affects patients’ health-related quality of life. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate HRQOL among adult asthmatic patients in Al-Diwaniyah, Iraq.Beyond physical manifestations, it exerts a considerable burden on patients’ overall well-being. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) has emerged as an important endpoint in asthma management.


Objective
To evaluate HRQOL among asthmatic patients attending Al-Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital in Iraq and to explore predictors influencing HRQOL.


Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2019 and January 2020 among 170 clinically stable adult asthma patients attending the Respiratory Diseases Center at Al-Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the validated Arabic version of the St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). Pulmonary function tests were performed, and multivariate linear regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of HRQOL scores.


Results
The mean age of participants was 38.08 ± 11.45 years, with nearly equal distribution between males and females. The mean total SGRQ score was 36.66 ± 9.77, indicating moderate impairment in health-related quality of life. Longer disease duration and more intensive treatment regimens were independently associated with higher (worse) HRQOL scores. Higher educational level was associated with better HRQOL outcomes. Reduced lung function parameters, particularly FEV1, FVC, and FEF50, were significant predictors of poorer HRQOL scores.


Conclusion
Asthma significantly impairs health-related quality of life. Disease duration, treatment intensity, and reduced pulmonary function were major determinants of poorer HRQOL. Incorporating HRQOL assessment into routine asthma care may support more comprehensive and patient-centered management.