Article

A prospective study in Nigeria - Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of stroke survivors can be
described as an important and holistic index of stroke outcome. To enhance this
all encompassing construct, information on its predictors at different phases of
stroke is required. This study sought to identify consistent
determinants of HRQoL over the course of 1 year after stroke in Nigeria. METHODS:
Information on socio-demographic, clinical, and functioning attributes of 55
consecutive individuals with first-ever stroke were obtained during acute
admission and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-stroke. Attributes of functioning
namely, motor performance, functional activity, and participation were assessed
using the Simplified Fugl-Meyer Assessment, the motor-Functional Independence
Measure, and the London Handicap Scale, respectively. HRQoL was also assessed
with the Health-Related Quality of Life in Stroke Patients-40 scale at 1, 3, 6,
and 12 months. Attributes that were associated with HRQoL at these time points
were identified using bivariate and multivariable regression analyses. RESULTS:
Among the independent variables, concurrently assessed participation was the sole
significant (P < 0.0001) determinant of HRQoL at 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively
accounting for 70%, 64%, and 75% variance in HRQoL. At 12 months, participation
(P < 0.0001), and functional activity (P < 0.05) accounted for 83% variance in
HRQoL, with better functional activity and participation associated with better
HRQoL. CONCLUSION: The outcome of this study indicates that optimizing
post-stroke functional activity and participation through proven and effective
rehabilitation strategies may result in better HRQoL in stroke survivors.

Langue : ANGLAIS