Quality of Life Study in Chronic Diseases: More Needed Than Ever.

Abstract

Numerous thyroid diseases can impact patients' lives, one of which is Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). Graves' ophthalmopathy is a progressive thyroid-related disease that causes eye symptoms due to an autoimmune reaction targeting thyrotropin/thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors in the orbital space. This condition can be easily recognized by the patient, including exophthalmos, pain, swelling, double vision, and impaired vision. Globally, the estimated incidence of GO is 3.3-8 per 100,000 in women and 0.9-1.6 per 100,000 in men with the peak incidence between 30-60 years old. The prevalence of GO is 9 per 100,000, with the prevalence of GO among patients with Graves' disease reaching 30%.Anggraini and Nusanti's study is one of only a few studies in Indonesia that aim to adapt a quality of life questionnaire into Bahasa Indonesia and find out patients' quality of life afterward, specifically in the thyroid field. The steps for translation, validation, and adaptation of the questionnaire and thus exploring patients' quality of life can be a model for similar studies. Today, our patients not only need assessment for clinical symptoms, signs, laboratory, or radiology results but also need assessment for their well-being and unmet needs which are summarized in the quality of life questionnaires. In the end, optimal quality of care will be the ultimate goal for all chronic disease patients.