Structural Equation Modeling on Health-related Quality of Life of Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis

Abstract

Background: Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, progressive, and inflammatory disease. The objective of this study was to construct a hypothetical model to determine factors affecting health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of AS patients (ASHRQOL).

Methods: A survey was conducted on 275 patients who visited Chonnam National University Bitgoeul Hospital. Data of different variables were collected over two months in 2015.

Results: A hypothetical model did not reach recommended level of fit verification. Therefore, health perception variable was eliminated on theoretical basis. Path between function and HRQOL was added after eliminating unimportant path before completing the final modified model.

Conclusion: The final revised model met recommended levels of fit test except AGFI. The model explained 57.6% of ASQOL. Further study is needed to develop efficient interventional strategy for improving ASHRQOL.

Keywords: Ankylosing spondylitis; Depression; Environmental support; Function.

Fig. 1:

Hypothetical model BPF=Biological Physiological Factor, ES=Environmental Support, PA=Physical Activity, HRQOL=Health related Quality of Life

Fig. 2:

Hypothetical model x2=C-reactive protein, x3=Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, x4=Material support, x5=Affectionate support, x6=Positive Social support, x7=Information Emotional support, x8=Physical Activity, y1=Fatigue, y2=Pain, y3=Stiffness, y4=Depression, y5=Function, y7=Health related quality of life, BPF=Biological Physical Factor, ES=Environmental Support, e1∼e9=Measurement error, d1,2,3,5=Structural error. ***: P<0.001, **: P<0.01, *: P<0.05