Health-related quality of life among people living with HIV disease in small communities and rural areas

While many studies have examined the life quality of HIV-infected persons i n large metropolitan areas, few studies have investigated quality of life i ssues among persons living with HIV disease in America's small and rural co mmunities. In the present study, 78 people living with HIV/AIDS in small an d rural communities (i.e., populations <25,000) reported on their health-re lated quality of life. Many respondents reported decreased social, emotiona l, functional, and physical well-being. Results revealed that participants' emotional well-being and the quality of their relationship with their doct or were related to their overall quality of life. The majority of participa nts (73%) expressed interest in participating in a telephone-linked support group involving other people living with HIV designed to improve quality o f life.