Determinants of Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Knee and Hip Osteoarthritis under Rehabilitation Care

The World Health Organization estimated Osteo-Arthritis (OA) to cause 80% sufferers to have movement limitation and 25% unable to perform major daily activities, which result in quality of life deterioration. This study aims to determine the factors associated with Health-Related Quality Of Life (HRQOL). A total of 131 OA patients were involved in a crosssectional study which were recruited from the Rehabilitation Health Organization, Terengganu. Socio-demographic, clinical and lifestyle histories, and 24-hour dietary intake were assessed by using structured questionnaire while HRQOL was measured by using the Malay version of the Osteo-Arthritis Knee and Hip Quality Of Life (OAKHQOL) questionnaire. OAKHQOL questionnaire was evaluated via Likert scales in the items range from 0 (best) to 10 (worst). In each domain, the mean score of the items was calculated, yielding a score for each domain. The score is the standardized on a scale from 0 (best possible QOL) to 100 (worst possible QOL) scale. Anthropometric measurement was measured by using Tanita Body Fat Monitor and Seca height scale and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Multiple linear regression was performed. Age was positively associated with social functioning (p=0.005). Meanwhile, disease duration was positively associated with physical domain (p=0.043). Among the anthropometric measurement, only BMI was positively associated with physical domain (p=0.040). Higher vitamins C and D intake was associated with lower mental health. Next, better social functioning was observed in low vitamin K consumption. Patients who exercise were associated with better physical and mental health, lower pain, and greater social support. Monthly income, body mass index, waist circumference, and other nutrients intake were not associated with HRQOL. In summary, exercise was the best predictor for better HRQOL.