Predictors of Health-Related Quality of Life in Hemodialysis: A Systematic Ambulatory Report

Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a fundamental outcome in hemodialysis (HD) care, closely linked to patient morbidity and mortality. The Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form (KDQOL-SF v1.3) is a validated instrument that captures patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), supporting personalized nephrology care. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in 405 prevalent HD patients from a Mexican kidney care network. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical data were collected along with KDQOL-SF v1.3 scores. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were performed. Results: Mean age was 52 years; 56% were male. Most patients (72%) received HD three times per week; 35% had sessions >180 minutes. Diabetes and hypertension were present in 43% and 87% of patients, respectively. The overall KDQoL score was 66.6 ± 14.2, with physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores of 41 and 48.6. In adjusted models, longer HD duration, male sex, higher albumin, and younger age were associated with higher PCS scores. Longer HD, phosphorus increase and lower interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) were associated with higher MCS scores. Conclusion: Longer HD duration, male sex, higher albumin, phosphorus levels and lower IDWG positively influenced HRQoL. PROMs may support individualized care strategies in Mexican HD populations.