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Factors associated with health-related quality of life among Belgrade University students

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Abstract

Purpose

The aims of the study were to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among students of University of Belgrade (Serbia) and to identify factors that might have associated with their HRQoL including relationship with depression.

Methods

Between April and June, 2009, 1624 students were enrolled in the cross-sectional study. HRQoL was assessed by using SF-36 questionnaire and general depressive status by Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). In statistical analysis, ANOVA (Bonferroni adjustment), χ2 test, and correlation analysis were performed.

Results

In our study, the highest SF-36 scale score was obtained for Physical Functioning. All SF-36 domains significantly (P < 0.01) negatively correlated with BDI. Students of medical sciences had the lowest scores in almost all SF-36 domains. Students who lived with parents had statistically significantly higher scores of majority of SF-36 domains. The total SF-36 score significantly correlated with average monthly family income (P = 0.002). Smokers and non-smokers significantly differed in the total SF-36 score (P = 0.001). Based on the comparison across the physical activity categories, there is a clear pattern of differences in the total SF-36 scores (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that multiple factors are adversely associated with students’ HRQoL. Appropriate health education programs to target modifiable risk factors may improve students’ HRQoL.

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Acknowledgments

This work was supported by grant from the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Republic of Serbia (grant No. 145045).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Visegradska 26A, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia

    Tatjana Pekmezovic, Darija Kisic Tepavcevic & Tatjana Gazibara

  2. Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, Blagoja Parovica 156, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia

    Aleksandra Popovic

  3. Department of Preventive Medicine, Student Public Health Center, University of Belgrade, Krunska 57, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia

    Mila Paunic

Authors
  1. Tatjana Pekmezovic
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  2. Aleksandra Popovic
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  3. Darija Kisic Tepavcevic
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  4. Tatjana Gazibara
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  5. Mila Paunic
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Correspondence to Tatjana Pekmezovic.

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Pekmezovic, T., Popovic, A., Kisic Tepavcevic, D. et al. Factors associated with health-related quality of life among Belgrade University students. Qual Life Res 20, 391–397 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11136-010-9754-x

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