The health-related quality of life in a Swedish sample of HIV-infected persons

The purposes of the present study are (1) to assess the health-related qual ity of life (HRQOL) and the subjective health status in a sample of human i mmunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons (2) to relate the results to d ifferent population groups and (3) to investigate the relationship of medic al and demographic variables with HRQOL. A total of 72 HIV-infected men wer e included. They answered the Swedish health-related quality of life questi onnaire and the health index. Demographic and medical data were obtained fr om the medical records. The data collection took place before entering a th erapeutic HIV vaccine trial. The results showed a more negative impact on t he HRQOL and subjective health status in the HIV-positive subjects, compare d with male population groups. The dimensions of emotional well-being were most affected. When comparisons were made according to the medical and demo graphic variables for different subgroups within the HIV sample, difference s in the physical-dimension scales were most prominent. Symptomatic HIV inf ection or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), anti-retroviral treatm ent, sick leave or disability pension, low income and basic education were associated with worse HRQOL and health status. In conclusion, it is of utmo st importance to take into account, aspects of the patients' emotional well -being in nursing, as well as in medical care and interventions. Moreover, individualized caring programs are needed because the disruptions in HRQOL fluctuated within the HIV sample.