Health-related quality of life of Chinese people with schizophrenia in Hong Kong and Taipei: A cross-sectional analysis

Health-related quality of life is an important outcome indicator of mental health. We assessed the perception of health-related quality of life of persons with schizophrenia in Hong Kong and Taipei. In-person survey interviews were conducted using the Chinese World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale-Brief Version. A convenience sample was recruited from psychiatric outpatient departments: 176 from Hong Kong and 80 from Taipei. We found that both groups were significantly less satisfied with their psychological and social relationship domains compared to other domains. Poor mental health predicted poor perception of health- related quality of life. Schizophrenia has an impact on many aspects of a person's functioning. A rehabilitation model that takes into account symptoms, financial situation, family support, and social functioning is required. (c) 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.