Health-Related Quality of Life and Sociodemographic Factors as Predictors of Treatment Outcomes in Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients in a Tertiary Hospital in Cebu City

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) remains a global health concern affecting millions of lives despite intensified screening and treatment efforts. PTB affects physical health and emotional, environmental, and psychological well-being—collectively influencing a patient’s quality of life. This study examined the relationship between pre-treatment health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and sociodemographic data, and their impact on treatment outcomes, whether completed or not, in PTB patients.

Methodology: This prospective cohort study was conducted at the TB DOTS Center of Chong Hua Hospital. It included patients aged 18 years or older without multidrug-resistant or extrapulmonary PTB and without significant comorbidities affecting HRQOL. Sociodemographic data were collected, and HRQOL was assessed using the World Health Organization QOL—Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire before the start of treatment.

Results: The mean age of our population was 37.18 ± 15.99; 56% were female, 62.5% were single, and 80% completed tertiary education. Fifty-five percent of the participants had comorbidities, the most common of which were hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Before treatment, participants reported a generally acceptable quality of life across all domains (physical, psychological, social, and environmental). Seventy-six patients completed treatment (i.e., treatment success), while four were lost to follow-up. There were no treatment failures. Those who completed treatment showed higher physical and psychological health scores at baseline, albeit the correlation was weak. Sociodemographic factors had minimal association with HRQOL, except for the absence of formal education which was associated with lower psychological scores. None of the analyzed sociodemographic factors were associated with lost to follow-up status.

Conclusion: While PTB treatment is highly effective in achieving clinical success, this study highlights that other factors like QOL are crucial for optimal outcomes. Pre-treatment physical and psychological health are strongly associated with an increased likelihood of treatment completion. The sociodemographic profile had no significant association with HRQOL and treatment outcome.