Factors affecting the quality of life of hypertensive patients

Using the Hypertension Health Status Inventory and multivariate analysis, predictors of quality of life were determined for a random selection of 316 hypertensive patients. Controlling for the effects of demographic and socioeconomic factors and existing co-morbidity, a better quality of life was independently predicted by achieving a controlled blood pressure and absence of target organ complications. Neither the number of antihypertensive drugs received nor the dose frequency affected patients' quality of life. Presence of drug side-effects independently predicted a lower quality of life in the physical and emotional domains but not on aspects of daily living. The independent predictors explained 25%-30% of the variation in the quality of life of hypertensive patients. The study highlights the role of achieving blood pressure control to ensure a better quality of life for hypertensive patients.