QUALITY OF LIFE AND THEIR CORRELATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH HEART DISEASE AND WITH RISK FACTORS FOR ATHEROSCLEROSIS

Abstract

Introduction: Physical limitations and psychological changes in patients with cardiovascular diseases can have a strong impact on the perceived quality of life (QOL). To provide a multidimensional approach to them is important that this aspect is evaluated in clinical practice. Objectives: To identify the socio-demographic and clinical profile in cardiac patients and in those with risk factors for atherosclerosis (FR), to assess quantitatively QOL and also test possible correlations between these aspects. Methods: This cross-sectional and prospective study included outpatients, of both sexes, with minimum age of 18 years, diagnosed with heart disease or FR and excluded patients with cognitive impairment and comorbid conditions that might interfere with QoL, as measured by the SF-36.  Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected by interview and review of medical records. Results: The sample consisted of 20 patients, mostly women (65%), with income above 3 minimum wages, mean age 54 ± 15 years and a body mass index of 28 ± 5 kg/m2. Half of the patients had heart disease (15% coronary artery disease, 10% heart valve disease and 25% other cardiovascular diseases) and the other half had only FR. The total QOL (average of the 8 domains) was 65%, with the highest score obtained in the field General Health (79%) and worst in Physical Aspect (54%). Moderate and inverse correlations were observed between the total number of symptoms and level of dyspnea versus QOL (Functional Capacity domanin), regardless of patient's age. Conclusion: In this sample, despite the low level of clinical severity in most patients, QOL proved to be reduced, especially in the domain Physical Aspect (54%). These data reinforce the view that QOL, that issubjective and multidimensional, should always be assessed by validated instruments and may not be inferred uniquely on the basis of diagnosis.