Quality of life of outpatients with schizophrenia from Urban and Rural areas in Baghdad

Abstract

Background:
Increasing interest in quality of life is the new approach for understanding and improvement of healthcare. Although there are many studies about quality of life in schizophrenic disorder, there is deficiency of data about quality of life of schizophrenic patients in urban and rural areas.
Objectives:
1-To study the quality of life of schizophrenic patients who are living in both rural and urban areas.
2-To identify any possible factors that might need further attention for treatment planning programs. Methods:
This study was prospectively conducted between October 2010 and May 2011, on 126 schizophrenic patients attending the outpatient clinic in Al-Rashaad training Hospital.we explain the purpose of the study to patients and take their consent; patients should have stable clinical condition (on regular treatment for at least 6 months, continuous course, not agitated or confused). International Diagnostic check list of (ICD 10)(9) andWorld Health Organization(WHO)Quality of life (QoL)-100 Arabic version(10) were used.
Results:
Patients from rural areas scored significantly higher than urban patients in all six domains (Physical health, Psychological health, Level of independence, Social relationships Environmental, and Spiritual domain) . Studying different demographic variables in correlation with quality of life ,showed the same manner .
Conclusion:
This study showed that schizophrenic patients living in rural areas, had relatively better quality of life than those living in urban areas.