EQ-5D-5L quality of life scores predict long-term outcomes in kidney transplant recipients.

Background

Kidney transplantation is the optimal method of renal replacement therapy. The EQ-5D-5L is a widely used instrument for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) across different populations.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess HRQoL in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) compared with the general population and to identify factors associated with impaired HRQoL. MATERIAL AND

Methods

A total of 156 KTRs (58 women and 98 men) participated in this prospective observational study. All participants completed the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. Demographic and laboratory data were collected, and physical performance tests were performed. Statistical analyses were conducted using Statistica.

Results

Of the 156 participants, 54 (34.62%) had an EQ-5D-5L health state of 11111, whereas 102 (65.38%) reported impairment in HRQoL in at least 1 domain. No significant differences in sex, age, or Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) were observed between the analyzed groups. Compared with Polish population reference values for the EQ-5D-5L, KTRs had similar HRQoL, with a median utility score of 0.970 [Q1-Q3: 0.916-1.000]. In the multivariable Cox regression model, the EQ-5D-5L utility score independently predicted mortality in KTRs (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.007; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.000-0.134; *p* = 0.001). The EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale (EQ VAS) score also independently predicted adverse outcomes (HR = 0.966; 95% CI: 0.935-0.997; p = 0.030).

Conclusions

Assessment of HRQoL should be an integral component of the holistic management of KTRs. HRQoL assessment is associated with long-term outcomes in KTRs. Self-rated HRQoL measured on a 0-100 VAS may help identify patients at increased risk of adverse outcomes.