The Impact of Social Support on Quality of Life in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a significant global health issue, with hemodialysis being a critical treatment for patients in its advanced stages. While effective at removing waste products and fluids, hemodialysis imposes physical, psychological, and social challenges on patients, influencing their overall quality of life (QoL). Social support is recognized as a crucial determinant of health, with emotional, informational, and practical assistance helping patients cope with the demands of chronic illness. Understanding the relationship between social support and QoL in hemodialysis patients is vital for improving patient care and outcomes.

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the role of social support in shaping the quality of life among hemodialysis patients at a tertiary hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Methodology: A cross-sectional, balanced group design was used to examine the relationship between QoL and social support among 80 hemodialysis patients. Participants were selected based on specific inclusion criteria (diagnosis of End-Stage Kidney Disease and at least six months of hemodialysis treatment). The study was conducted from January 2023 to January 2023 at a tertiary hospital in Dhaka. Two validated tools, the Missoula-Vitas Quality of Life Index-15 (MVQoLI-15) and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), were employed to assess QoL and social support, respectively. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was acquired from all participants. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and correlation tests (Pearson’s r and Spearman’s rho).

Results: The study revealed significant positive correlations between social support from friends and both QoL and overall social support scores. Notably, a positive relationship was found between the MSPSS Total score and the Transcendence dimension of the MVQoLI-15. Participants reported the highest QoL in the interpersonal dimension, with a lower QoL in the well-being dimension. The correlation analysis highlighted that increased social support, especially from friends, was associated with better QoL scores.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that social support, particularly from friends, plays a significant role in enhancing the quality of life of hemodialysis patients. These results underscore the importance of fostering strong social networks and providing tailored support systems to address the physical, emotional, and social challenges faced by patients. Further research with larger and more diverse populations is recommended to deepen understanding and improve interventions for this patient group.