Factors related to quality of life of patients with ulcerative colitis

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify factors related to the quality of life of patients with ulcerative colitis. Methods: A total 116 patients with ulcerative colitis were asked on general characteristics, illness-related characteristics, depression, and quality of life. The collected data were analyzed by t-test, ANOVA, and stepwise multiple regression. Results: As for depression the 81.03% were normal, the 8.62% were mild depression, the 6.90% were moderated depression, and the 3.45% were severe. As for quality of life, the social functions was highest, followed by intestine-related symptoms, systemic symptoms, and emotional functions. Quality of life was positively correlated to subjective health status, age, and body mass index, and negatively to depression. Main factors affecting the quality of life included depression, subjective health status, physician's global assessment, age, days of loss in social life, and present abdominal pain. Conclusion: Physical and psychosocial health problems related to ulcerative colitis affected the quality of life of the patients. Further research is warranted for developing educational programs and psychosocial strategies in order to efficiently handle the illness.