Psychosocial predictors of quality of life post myocardial Infarction: A prospective cohort study in Pakistan

Abstract

Introduction: The current study examined the psychosocial predictors (Type D personality, anxiety, depression & social support) in patients following MI. It further assessed the influence of these psychosocial predictors on quality of life of MI patients. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 300 patients with definite myocardial infarction were recruited and assessed at baseline (2 -8 weeks) post MI (time 1). Out of 300 participants 191 completed assessments at 9 months follow up (time 2). Type D personality was evaluated with Distress scale 14(DS-14). Depression and anxiety were assessed with Hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS). Social support was measured with Social support scale (SSS), while quality of Life was assessed with WHO quality of life scale (WHOQOL-BREF) at time 1 and time 2. Results: Analysis revealed that a significantly high percentage of MI patients had Type D personality characteristics, high levels of anxiety, depression and low level of social support. Type D personality and depression emerged as most significant predictors of quality of life after controlling for sociodemographic and clinical variables at time 1 and time 2 assessments. Discussion & Conclusion: This research emphasized the importance of Type D personality, anxiety, depression, and lack of social support in risk stratification for adverse outcomes such as impaired quality of life. This research highlighted the need for a more personalized approach to therapeutic interventions along with medical treatment for the management and rehabilitation of MI patients.