Abstract

A CROSS SECTIONAL OBSERVATION STUDY – A STUDY ON QUALITY-OF-LIFE AMONG STROKE SURVIVORS

M. S. Asma Parveen* and R. Jona Methusala

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Abstract

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a stroke as quickly manifesting clinical evidence of a focused (or global) disruption of brain function, with symptoms lasting 24 hours or more or resulting in death, and no other clear cause other than vascular origin. 9.4 million fatalities in India were reported by the global burden of disease, including 619000 stroke deaths. The idea of standard of living, which is mostly dependent on income, should not be confused with quality of life. Research has indicated that disability is a significant predictor of health-related QOL and that QOL among stroke patients has a negative impact on both short- and long-term health-related QOL. To measure QOL, a multidimensional approach is required. At least four factors are considered in a QOL assessment: environment, social health, psychology, and physical health. Aim and Objectives: 1.To assess the quality of life among stroke patients. 2.To assess social and functional qualities among stoke patients. Methodology: A cross sectional observational study was conducted on 67 patients of stroke aged more then 30 yrs at the GOVERNMENT GENERAL HOSPITAL, KURNOOL. Results: Out of 67 patients, quality of life score in majority of the patients was described as that the general quality of life to be poor with 60.4% and majority of the stroke patients with 59.4% describe their general health as dissatisfied and there was significant difference seen according to sex, side of lesion, duration od stroke, socioeconomic status, occupation and hypertension. Conclusion: Assessing the quality of life in stroke patients is very important because it is among the most devastating health aspects having the multiple and profound effects upon all the life aspects. By evaluating the QOL in stroke patients we can turns this aspects into active daily living and improve their overall quality of stroke patients.

Keywords: Quality of life, Stroke.