Evaluation of Health-Related Quality of Life in Cardiac Disease Patients in Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital

Background

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. This study aimed to assess the demographic profile, major diagnoses, and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) in CVD patients, while examining the influence of socioeconomic factors, educational background, and social habits.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 CVD patients aged 18 to 92 years. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Socioeconomic status was assessed using the updated Kuppuswamy scale. HRQOL was measured using standard domains and analysed with the chi square test.

Results

Among the participants, 61.6% were male and 38.4% female, consistent with prior studies indicating higher CVD prevalence in older males. The most common diagnoses were Acute Coronary Syndrome-MI (46%), Unstable Angina (20.8%), and IHD-MI (11.2%). Social habits were 12% (alcohol use), 18.4% (smoking), and 6% (tobacco chewing), with combined habits in 8.8% of patients. HRQOL scores were highest in the Mental Health domain (M=60.65, SD=5.36) and lowest in Role Physical (M=22.50, SD=41.63) and Role Emotional (M=26.80, SD=44.17) domains. Patients with adverse social habits showed lower scores in the Pain and General Health domains. Urban residents and literate individuals generally reported higher HRQOL scores.

Conclusion

IHD remains the predominant cardiovascular emergency, particularly among older males. Social habits and lower socioeconomic or educational status negatively impact HRQOL. These findings highlight the need for targeted health education, lifestyle interventions, and social support to improve outcomes in CVD patients.