The Effect of Heart Failure on The Quality of Life:

Abstract

Background

Heart failure is a growing global problem, more so in Sub-Saharan Africa due to limited resources to manage it. A failed heart becomes a burden on the functional capacity and a limiting factor in the enjoyment of good quality life.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the effect of heart failure on the quality of life among patients with heart failure.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study among 110 patients with heart failure who presented at the general outpatient clinic of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria. Quality of life of respondents was assessed using the Medical Outcome Study Item Short Form (SF-36), and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure (MLHF) questionnaires. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 17.0. Using SF-36 questionnaire, scores of <60% and >60% indicated poor and good quality of life while scores of <24, 24-45, and >45 indicated good, moderate, and poor quality of life using the MLHF questionnaire.

Results

Majority of respondents were 60 years and above (92.7%). The largest proportion of respondents belonged to functional status Class III (51.8%). All respondents in Class 1 had good quality of life compared to those in Class III (100% vs 10.5% ). Using generic instrument, all respondents had poor quality of life to varying proportion in health concepts.

Conclusion

Heart failure negatively affected the quality of life of respondents. Poorer functional status was associated with poorer quality of life. NYHA class significantly associated with the quality of life. Heart failure is common among older adults and negatively affect their quality of life. All preventive measures against factors that precipitate heart failure must be encouraged.