Quality of Life and Associated Factors Among Hypertensive Patients in a Tertiary Hospital of Kathmandu District, Nepal

Background Hypertension is one of the most common leading causes of global public health emergencies and a major contributor to cardiovascular complications such as stroke and myocardial infarction, all of which adversely affect the quality of life (QOL) of hypertensive patients. Despite this burden, there remains a limited understanding of the various factors affecting the quality of life of hypertensive patients, particularly in low-and-middle income settings. This study aims to assess the quality of life among hypertensive patients along with their various associated factors in the Kathmandu District, Nepal. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out in a selected hospital of Kathmandu District from February to March 2023, with a total sample size of 200 hypertensive patients. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview schedule, and WHOQOL-BREF was used to measure the outcome variable. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the socio-demographic, social, psychological, and behavioural factors. Bivariate analysis was performed using the chi-square test, and variables with a p-value < 0.2 were entered into the multivariable logistic regression model. In the final model, variables with p-values < 0.05 at a 95% Confidence Interval were considered statistically significant. All statistical analyses were conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20. Results A total of 200 hypertensive patients participated, of whom 88% had a good quality of life. Lower income (p = 0.027) and illiteracy (p = 0.049), lack of family support (p = 0.001), non-consumption of meat and fish (p = 0.005), higher salt intake (p = 0.045), physical inactivity (p < 0.001), and irregular medication use (p = 0.001) were associated with poor QOL. In multivariable analysis, family support (aOR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.10–0.87), meat and fish consumption (aOR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.07–0.75), and physical activity (aOR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.01–0.70) were significantly protective against poor QOL. Conclusion Poor quality of life among hypertensive patients was primarily associated with both modifiable behavioural and social factors, and socio-demographic characteristics. Interventions that strengthen social support, promote healthy dietary practices, and encourage regular physical activity may substantially improve the quality of life in individuals living with hypertension.