Evaluation of Health-Related Quality of Life in Diabetic Patients in Iraq: A Questionnaire-Based Analysis

Chronic Oral Mucosal Diseases (COMD) encompass a range of disorders characterized by autoimmune, inflammatory, and infectious processes affecting the oral cavity's mucosal tissues. In diabetic patients, the implications of COMD are particularly pronounced, as these conditions can deteriorate overall health outcomes, impacting physical, social, and psychological well-being. The interplay between diabetes and COMD is multifaceted; diabetes predisposes individuals to oral health issues such as dry mouth and periodontal disease, which in turn complicate blood sugar management and exacerbate the severity of COMD. This complex relationship underscores the necessity of assessing quality of life (QOL) in diabetic patients affected by COMD. The World Health Organization defines QOL as an individual’s perception of their life situation, shaped by cultural and personal values. In this context, factors like pain, functional limitations, and emotional health are vital for understanding patient experiences. Instruments such as the Chronic Oral Mucosal Diseases Questionnaire (COMDQ) effectively capture these experiences, highlighting challenges related to pain, functional impairment, and psychosocial effects. By prioritizing QOL assessments, healthcare providers can gain deeper insights into the lived experiences of diabetic patients with COMD. This understanding facilitates tailored management strategies that not only address clinical symptoms but also enhance overall life satisfaction, ultimately promoting better health and well-being within this vulnerable population. An ethical study was approved to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) among Iraqi diabetic patients, enrolling 100 participants from the Endocrinology and Metabolism Department. Conducted from March to June, eligibility was limited to adults over 18 with a clinical diabetes diagnosis. The study encompassed complications like neuropathy and retinopathy, using comprehensive assessments for accurate diagnoses. Participants completed the Diabetic Quality of Life Questionnaire (DQoLQ), covering multiple health dimensions. Data was meticulously collected and analyzed using SPSS to uncover correlations between QoL and demographic factors, ensuring the integrity of results through independent verification. The study examined patient demographics and quality of life (QOL) across four chronic oral mucosal diseases: oral lichen planus, recurrent aphthous ulcers, pemphigus, and others. Results indicated that ages 31-40 and 51-60 had the highest representation. Social-emotional support significantly improved QOL, especially among older participants and women.