A CROSS-SECTIONAL INVESTIGATION OF THE SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACT ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF PEOPLE SUFFERING WITH CHRONIC DISORDERS IN GUNTUR

Aim: Our study aims to assess the impact of socio-economic variables on the Quality of Life (QoL) of individuals with chronic diseases in Guntur.This study investigates socioeconomic status, and quality of life, and identifies significant factors that may influence individuals' health outcomes.Additionally, this survey highlights challenges faced by individuals that may influence their healthcare decisions and assess the impact of patient counselling recommendations on the individual's ability to enhance the overall quality of life.Methodology: Conducted from August 2023 to February 2024, the study involved 994 individuals, with 820 having chronic diseases.The cross-sectional study employed stratified random sampling to enroll participants from healthcare facilities, community centers, and outreach programs.Data on socioeconomic status were collected through validated surveys, and QoL evaluation was conducted with the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire.Results: Most individuals with chronic diseases were in the upper-lower class.Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test unveiled a significant relationship between socio-economic status and QoL.Participants in lower classes preferred generic medications and self-medicated more, while higher classes favored branded medications and had more regular health checkups.Despite socio-economic challenges, the upper and lower classes reported higher QoL scores.Patient counseling interventions significantly improved medication adherence, awareness of chronic disease risk factors, and health management skills.