Effects of Liver Disease on the Well-Being of Persons Living With HIV

Clinical evidence suggests that patients with liver disease and HIV have poorer quality of life (QOL). Because little research exists to support this observation, this study examined the relationships between people with HIV and liver disorders and their QOL. Cella's multidimensional (functional, social, emotional, physical) conceptualization of QOL guided this study. The sample included 80 participants with liver disorders and HIV; 48.8% had chronic or permanent hepatitis. Cella's four dimensions significantly correlated with QOL: functional, r = .329, p < .01; social, r = .636, p < .01; emotional, r = -.549, p < .01; and physical, r = -.480, p < .01. Linear regression analysis with QOL as the dependent variable and the four dimensions as predictors resulted in significant associations explaining approximately 50% of the variance (R² = .532). Confirmatory factor analysis supported Cella's model with the four subdomains loading on one factor (QOL). Understanding the multiple dimensions of QOL may assist in developing interventions for patients with HIV and comorbid liver disorders.