Biopsychosocial predictors of fatigue in chronic hepatitis C
Received 28 May 2003; accepted 7 July 2004.
Abstract
Objective
The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship of biopsychosocial variables to fatigue in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) with the goal of identifying areas of possible intervention.
Method
Ninety-four patients with CHC not on antiviral therapy completed a demographic questionnaire and measures of fatigue, health-related quality of life, and depression. Fibrosis stage and relevant medical information were obtained from medical records.
Results
A stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that the most significant predictor of fatigue was poor social functioning, followed by poor physical functioning, greater depression, and female gender. Together, these variables accounted for 68% of the total variance in fatigue.
Discussion
Study findings suggest that treatment strategies for fatigue in patients with CHC should focus on increasing social functioning in addition to improving physical functioning and decreasing depressive symptoms. Research investigating the effectiveness of interventions targeting social functioning, such as support groups and supportive counseling, is recommended.
aDepartment of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Science, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, STOP 8321, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States
bDivision of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
cDepartment of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
Corresponding author. Department of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Science, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, STOP 8321, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States. Tel.: +1 806 743 4999x289; fax: +1 806 743 1147
ABSTRACT