The Importance Of Support Group In Improving The Quality Of Life And Well Being In Patients With Osteoporosis

Introduction. How can we improve the quality of life (QOL) in patients with osteoporosis? There are few studies that assessed that a control group could have a potential effect on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) on patients with osteoporosis. The aim of our study was to assess the quality of life and some psychological factors in patients with osteoporosis (women with vertebral osteoporosis from Oradea, Romania) using a support group. Materials and methods. We assessed all patients for their quality of life with Qualeffo 41 Questionnaire, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale for anxiety, and the Levenstein Stress Perceived Questionnaire for stress and self-esteem with Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, both at baseline and 12 weeks later. Statistical analysis used the package SPSS19. The cases (287 patients) wore selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria implies fulfilling the WHO norms for osteoporosis, complying with the principles of medical ethics, while the exclusion criteria refer to severe diseases and non compliance. Results and discussion. The values measured at the end of the study showed that patients from the support group ASPOR (Association for Prevention of Osteoporosis in Romania) had the hest results, compared with the placebo group, the worst values being in the control group. In order to improve the quality of life in patients with osteoporosis, it is very important to have a support group. Conclusions. This controlled study is aimed as a catalyst for future long-term approach on patients with osteoporosis in a holistic manner, stress being laid on the adherence to a support group.