Quality of Life and Emotional Status Among Women with Skin Disease: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Skin is considered the most noticeable organ. The impact of visible skin disorders extends far beyond its clinical features, especially among women, in terms of quality of life (QoL) and emotional status. The aim of the study is to determine the quality of life and emotional status among women with skin disease in public hospitals. Method: A cross-sectional study design was conducted at the dermatology clinics of Kuala Lumpur and Selayang Hospital from March 2023 to May 2023. The researcher utilized a proportionate and random sampling method involving 404 respondents. The self-administered questionnaire comprised the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Emotional State Questionnaire (EST-Q). Results: Most of the respondents were diagnosed with eczema (n=170, 42.1%) and aged 18–30 (n=217, 53.7%). Eczema patients had the most very large effect on DLQI score (n=61, 35.9%) and the highest depression in EST-Q score (n=61, 35.9%). There was no significant difference between types of skin diseases with emotional status subscales except for insomnia (p=0.012). Depression and insomnia were significantly associated with the DLQI score (p<0.05). Conclusion: These findings showed the need to develop comprehensive care approaches by dermatologists and nurses that address the multidimensional impact of skin diseases on patients to enhance their quality of life and health outcomes by implementing strategies to improve depression and insomnia.