The impact of the cost-of-living crisis, self-efficacy and religiosity on health-related quality of life in individuals with sickle cell disease

Aim: This study investigated the role of the individual impact of the cost-of-living crisis, self-efficacy, religiosity, demographic factors, and their collective influence on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD).
Methods: A correlational online survey with 443 participants living with SCD (51.5% males and 48.8% females) was conducted. HRQoL was assessed with the 12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12). Independent variables were the individual impact of the cost-of-living crisis (ICoLC), sickle cell self-efficacy, religiosity, and demographic factors (age, gender, education, and country of residence). Quantile regression analysis was employed.
Results: Self-efficacy was positively associated with HRQoL, evidencing the importance of self-efficacy in managing SCD. ICoLC was negatively associated with HRQoL, underscoring the challenges faced by individuals with SCD during the cost-of-living crisis. UK participants reported significantly higher HRQoL than US participants, suggesting national disparities. Contrary to previous findings, religiosity was negatively associated with HRQoL.
Conclusion: This study highlights the roles of self-efficacy, the cost-of-living crisis, religiosity, and demographic factors in shaping the HRQoL of individuals with SCD. Our findings call for interventions that enhance self-efficacy, mitigate the financial challenges arising from the cost-of-living crisis, and provide tailored support for individuals having differing levels of religiosity. They also emphasize the need for region-specific healthcare delivery and support systems. Future research should explore these relationships qualitatively, aiming to develop interventions that enhance HRQoL for individuals with SCD, regardless of their geographical location, to improve outcomes and overall well-being during the cost-of-living crisis and beyond.