Health-related quality of life and sense of coherence among people with obesity: Important factors for health management

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether health-related quality of life and levels of sense of coherence among people with obesity are correlated with body mass index, age, and gender. METHODS A cross-sectional, descriptive research design was used. Subjects (n = 157) were selected from a sample of participants in an ongoing survey and had a body mass index >30 kg/m(2). Data were collected using the Short Form-36 Health Survey and the Sense of Coherence Scale. RESULTS The mean body mass index of women was higher than that of men. Compared to men, a greater proportion of women had a low sense of coherence. There was a significant relationship between low physical health and high body mass index. Female gender and older age correlated with a low sense of coherence and showed a significant association with high body mass index. CONCLUSION To increase the health-related quality of life, people with obesity need support to help manage their life situation based on their individual needs and personal resources.