Evaluation of the quality of life of schizophrenic patients treated on an outpatient basis in Burkina Faso: cross-sectional study at the Yalgado OUEDRAOGO University Hospital

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Schizophrenia is a chronic psychiatric illness that significantly impairs patients' quality of life, particularly in developing countries such as Burkina Faso.

Objective: To evaluate the quality of life of schizophrenic patients undergoing consultation at the psychiatry department of CHU-Yalgado OUEDRAOGO between 21 November 2021 and 13 January 2022, and to identify associated factors.

Methodology: A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 176 schizophrenic patients who had been clinically stable for at least six months. Data were collected using a questionnaire and the Quality of Life Scale (QLS), during face-to-face interviews.

Results: Participants were predominantly male (60.8%), with a mean age of 39.72 ± 10.08 years. Most were married (47.73%) and lived in urban areas (89.77%). Onset of the disease occurred at an average age of 29.27 years, with a duration of course of 10.34 years. Paranoid schizophrenia was diagnosed in 98.86% of patients. Only 30.68% had a good quality of life; 64.20% had moderate impairment and 5.11% severe. Age under 45 years was protective (P = 0.03; OR = 0.39), while male gender (P = 0.04; OR = 2.04) and treatment side effects (P = 0.04; OR = 2.37) were risk factors.

Conclusion : The study revealed a marked deterioration in quality of life, underlining the need for comprehensive, individualised care.