Investigation of Effective Factors on the Quality of Life of Patients Suffering from Ulcerative Colitis in Remission

Abstract

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease with a variable and unpredictable course. This disease has noticeable consequences and by causing limitations in the life style of patients affects their quality of life. Objectives: In this study, we evaluated the quality of life (QOL) of these patients in the remission period of this disease. Methods: Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in 96 patients suffering from UC in clinical remission phase were evaluated by the use of two questionnaires of IBDQ and SF-36 which evaluate the domains of QOL and physical-psychological health, respectively. Results were analyzed by independent sample t-test and regression analysis using of SPSS version 22. Results: Mean total scores from SF-36 and IBDQ tests were 79.5 ± 17.7 and 48.8 ± 9.5, respectively. Based on the results of IBD-Q test, the least score was given to the systemic symptoms (11.01 ± 3.17) and the most was related to the emotional function (30.06 ± 8.03). In the domain of physical-psychological health, physical health (15.06 ± 25.7) compared to the psychological health (33.5 ± 7.8) had a higher score. In addition, the mean total score from the IBD-Q test (P = 0.017), intestinal symptoms (P = 0.015) and emotional function (P = 0.007) were statistically more significant in males compared to the females. Conclusions: In patients suffering from UC in the remission phase males had a better HRQOL compared to females. Also remission period and absence of EIM have a positive effect on the QOL of these patients. Keywords: Ulcerative Colitis, Health Related Quality of Life, IBDQ, SF-36