Correlates of health-related quality of life in patients with myocardial infarction: A literature review

BackgroundBy the increasing emphasis on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with myocardial infarction (MI), it is necessary to explore factors that affect HRQoL in this population.ObjectivesThis study aimed to identify correlates of HRQoL in patients with MI.DesignA literature review of the factors that affect HRQoL in patients with MI (1995-2016).Data sourcesThree main databases-CINAHL, MEDLINE and PsychINFO-were searched to retrieve relevant peer-reviewed articles published in English.Review methodsIn consultation with a medical librarian, we identified relevant MeSH terms and used them for searching the literature: health-related quality of life/quality of life/HRQoL/QoL, myocardial infarction/heart attack/MI and predict*/factor. Data elements were extracted and narratively described variables synthesised into four categories.ResultsA total of 48 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Correlates of HRQoL in patients with MI were identified in the following categories: demographic, behavioural, disease-related, and psychosocial factors. Specific correlates included age and gender-identity for demographic factors; physical activity and smoking for behavioural factors; severity of MI, symptoms, and comorbidities for disease-related factors; anxiety and depression for psychosocial factors.ConclusionsIdentifying correlates of HRQoL can help identify patients who are at risk for poor HRQoL in the recovery or rehabilitation stage of post-MI. Future intervention should focus on adjustable correlates such as behavioural and psychosocial factors to promote HRQoL among patients after experiencing MI.