Health-related quality of life, psychological distress, and symptom burden in an Asian population of outpatients with atrial fibrillation

Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia and has debilitating effects on patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and psychological statuses. Aim To investigate the HRQoL, psychological distress, and symptom burden, and to identify the significant influencing factors of HRQoL among outpatients with AF in Singapore. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive correlational study of a sample of 116 outpatients with AF. Data were collected using 12-item Short Form Health Survey, Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality of Life scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and University of Toronto Atrial Fibrillation Symptom Severity (AFSS) scale. Results Symptom burden and psychological distress significantly influenced the AF-specific HRQoL while symptom burden, unemployment and comorbidity of heart failure were significantly associated with poorer general physical health. Psychological distress was the only significant factor influencing the mental health. Conclusion Optimal symptom management is crucial for better HRQoL in patients with atrial fibrillation.