Factors affecting quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in South Korea: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that significantly reduces the quality of life (QOL) of affected patients. Many studies have emphasized the deterioration of QOL during the treatment of patients with RA, but factors that affect this phenomenon in Koreans with RA remain unclear. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 166 Korean patients with RA were enrolled, and their general characteristics, disease-related characteristics, fatigue, feelings of depression, self-efficacy, social support, and QOL were assessed. RESULTS: The overall mean score for RA-specific QOL was 5.8 out of 10. Fatigue, depression, self-efficacy, and social support were found to be significantly associated with the QOL of patients with RA. Notably, self-efficacy was found to be the most significant predictor of QOL. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to patients with RA in Western countries, Korean patients with RA, even those with better physical function, seem to have a lower QOL. Identification of the relevant physical, psychological, and social factors affecting QOL in Koreans with RA is beneficial for clinical practice. Incorporation of strategies to address these factors, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, should be considered for the holistic management of RA. Key Points * Korean patients with RA report lower levels of QOL. * Factors associated with the QOL of patients with RA were fatigue, depression, self-efficacy, and social support. * Self-efficacy was the strongest factor affecting QOL in this population; thus, it would be beneficial for clinical practitioners to incorporate cognitive-behavioral approaches into patient education to enhance self-management. * Our findings suggest that QOL and psychological factors should also be regularly evaluated for the holistic management of patients with RA.