Health-related quality of life and associated factors among hospitalized dengue patients in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Dengue is an increasing public health concern in Bangladesh, but its impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) remains poorly explored. In 2024, Bangladesh experienced a substantial rise in dengue cases. This study aimed to assess the HRQoL of hospitalized dengue patients in Bangladesh and identify its associated factors.

METHODS

The cross-sectional observational study was conducted among hospitalized dengue patients in Bangladesh. HRQoL was measured using the EQ-5D-3L. Multivariable regression models examined the associations between demographic, socio-economic, and clinical factors and HRQoL outcomes (EQ-5D-3L index and EQ-VAS scores).

RESULTS

A total of 490 hospitalized dengue patients were included, with a median age of 27 years. The majority of the patients were aged below 40 years (79%), male (80%), and residing in urban areas (73%). Group B (70%) had the highest dengue severity among participants. Most of the participants experienced problems regarding mobility (86%), self-care (80%), usual activities (85%), pain (89%), and anxiety/depression (82%). The mean EQ-5D-3L index score was 0.46 ± 0.38, and the median EQ-VAS score was 50 (IQR: 30-60). Severe dengue (Group C) was associated with the poorest HRQoL (index: 0.12 ± 0.35; VAS: 28.82 ± 16.78), compared to Group A (index: 0.62 ± 0.35; VAS: 41.02 ± 18.98; p < 0.001). Patients aged ≥60 years reported lower HRQoL (index: 0.32 ± 0.39; VAS: 35.63 ± 16.72; p < 0.001) than younger age groups. Comorbid patients had significantly reduced HRQoL (index: 0.23 ± 0.38 vs. 0.50 ± 0.36; VAS: 37.80 ± 18.22 vs. 45.72 ± 18.69; p < 0.001). Males reported higher EQ-VAS scores than females (45.65 ± 19.50 vs. 39.90 ± 14.98; p = 0.007), while urban residents had lower self-rated health than rural residents (43.44 ± 19.24 vs. 47.46 ± 17.32; p = 0.037). Multivariable regression confirmed that dengue severity, age, and comorbidities were independent predictors of both EQ-5D-3L index and EQ-VAS scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the significant impact of dengue on HRQoL and identifies key factors associated with reduced well-being among hospitalized dengue patients in Bangladesh. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, particularly in vulnerable populations in resource-constrained settings, and call for further research to guide patient-centered care for this disease.