Health- Related Quality of Life in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes

Considering the importance of quality of life (QoL) affected in chronic diseases including diabetes, this study conducted to evaluate health-related quality of life in patients with type 1-diabetes.

In this cross-sectional study, 150 patients with type 1 diabetes were enrolled from the Institute of Endocrinology & Metabolism. A quality of Life questionnaire validated previously for assessment of QoL in people with type-1 diabetes in Iran was used. The questionnaire included 20 questions in five areas of social relationships, emotional, daily activity, academic performance and treatment.

Mean age of the subjects and duration of disease were 22.14±6.84, 8.97± 7.14 years respectively. The mean score for general quality of life was 70.70±13.95 in men and 67.27±11.87 in women. There was no significant difference in general quality of life between men and women. However, regarding treatment, the quality of life in men (65.64±16.65) was higher than in women (P<0.05). General quality of life was significantly correlated with duration of diabetes and type of insulin. In patients treated with insulin-analogues, general quality of life and areas of emotional, social relationships, academic performance and treatment were better.

To conclude, comprehensive diabetes care, including mental health counseling and structured patient education programs might improve QoL in Iranian patients with type 1 diabetes.