Longitudinal predictors of health-related quality of life in middle-aged and older adults with hypertension: results of a population-based study
Journal of Hypertension, 06/29/2012

Maatouk I et al. – Macroalbuminuria and other variables related to increased cardiovascular risk have a negative impact on physical component scores (PCS). Suggestions of a link of treatment and awareness of hypertension with HRQOL from previous cross–sectional studies are not supported by the longitudinal findings.

• 9953 participants of the ESTHER (Epidemiologische Studie zu Chancen der Verhütung, Früherkennung und optimierten Therapie chronischer Erkrankungen) study – a population–based cohort study of middle–aged and older adults aged 50–74 years at baseline – were recruited by general practitioners (GPs) in 2000–2002 and included in the follow–up (2005–2007).
• HRQOL at baseline and follow–up was measured using the Short–Form General Health Survey (SF–12).
• Mental component scores (MCS) and physical component scores (PCS) were calculated.
• Multiple linear regression models were used to determine longitudinal predictors of HRQOL at follow–up.

• 4203 patients with hypertension (98.2%) responded to the SF–12 both at baseline and after 5 years and were therefore included in the study.
• Smoking status, BMI, diabetes, macroalbuminuria, comorbid diseases, history of depression, and lower HRQOL at baseline predicted lower PCS at the 5–year follow–up.
• Lower MCS after 5 years was predicted by smoking status, dyslipidaemia, a reported history of depression, and HRQOL at baseline.
• No significant association was detected between awareness of hypertension and any HRQOL component score after 5 years.